How to get rid of lice bites? - briefly
Clean the affected skin with mild soap, then apply a soothing anti‑itch cream, antihistamine, or a cold compress to reduce inflammation and prevent infection. Avoid scratching and keep the scalp and hair free of lice through thorough combing and appropriate treatment.
How to get rid of lice bites? - in detail
Lice bites cause itching, redness, and occasional swelling. Immediate relief begins with cleansing the affected skin. Wash the area with mild soap and cool water, then pat dry. Applying a cold compress for several minutes reduces swelling and numbness.
For itch control, use over‑the‑counter antihistamine creams or oral antihistamines. Hydrocortisone ointment (1 %) applied two to three times daily calms inflammation. If the reaction is severe, a stronger corticosteroid prescribed by a physician may be required.
Prevent secondary infection by keeping the skin free of debris. Gently trim any broken hair near the bite, then cover the spot with a breathable bandage if scratching is unavoidable. Change the dressing daily and monitor for signs of pus, increased pain, or spreading redness; these indicate infection and warrant medical attention.
Home remedies can complement pharmaceutical options. A paste of baking soda and water, applied for 10‑15 minutes, absorbs moisture and eases irritation. Diluted tea tree oil (one drop per teaspoon of carrier oil) applied sparingly offers mild antiseptic action, but avoid excessive use to prevent skin irritation.
Eliminate the source of the bites to stop new lesions. Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥60 °C) and dry on high heat. Use a fine‑toothed comb on damp hair, cleaning the comb after each pass. For persistent infestations, treat the scalp with a pediculicide approved for lice, following the product’s instructions precisely.
Maintain personal hygiene to reduce recurrence. Regularly shampoo hair, avoid sharing combs, hats, or headphones, and inspect the scalp weekly during an outbreak. Children should be taught not to scratch and to report any new bumps promptly.
Seek professional care if:
- Symptoms persist beyond a week despite treatment.
- Signs of infection appear.
- The individual has asthma, allergies, or compromised immunity.
These steps collectively alleviate discomfort, prevent complications, and break the cycle of infestation.