How to get rid of lice from a child? - briefly
Apply a pediatric‑approved lice treatment (e.g., 1% permethrin or dimethicone) according to the label, then comb the hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb to remove nits, repeating the process after 7–10 days. Wash all clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water or seal them in plastic bags for two weeks to prevent re‑infestation.
How to get rid of lice from a child? - in detail
Head lice infestations in children are common and require prompt, thorough treatment to stop spread and alleviate discomfort. Identification relies on spotting live insects or their eggs (nits) attached near the scalp, especially at the hairline, behind the ears, and on the neck. Nits appear as tiny, oval, yellow‑white shells that are firmly glued to hair shafts; they do not detach easily with a simple pull.
Effective eradication begins with an approved pediculicide. Choose a product containing either permethrin (1 %) or pyrethrin combined with piperonyl‑butoxide, following label instructions precisely. Apply the lotion or shampoo to dry hair, ensuring coverage from scalp to tips. Leave the preparation on for the recommended duration—typically 10 minutes—then rinse thoroughly. A second application is required after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched nits that survived the first treatment. For resistant cases, a prescription medication such as malathion (0.5 %) or ivermectin may be prescribed by a healthcare professional.
Manual removal complements chemical treatment. Use a fine‑toothed, metal nit comb on wet, conditioned hair. Start at the scalp, pull the comb through each section, and wipe the teeth with a tissue after each pass. Perform combing daily for at least one week, then every other day for an additional week to ensure all eggs are removed. Dispose of combed out nits in a sealed bag or flush them to prevent re‑infestation.
Environmental decontamination limits re‑exposure. Wash the child’s bedding, clothing, and towels in hot water (≥ 130 °F/54 °C) and tumble dry on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in plastic bags for two weeks. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward. Personal items such as hats, hairbrushes, and combs should be soaked in hot water for 10 minutes or replaced.
Prevention relies on habit changes. Teach children not to share hats, scarves, hair accessories, or headphones. Encourage regular scalp inspections, especially after playdates or school activities. Keep hair tied back when possible, as shorter or neatly styled hair reduces the likelihood of lice attachment.
Following the outlined chemical and mechanical steps, together with diligent cleaning and preventive measures, eliminates head lice in a child and reduces the risk of recurrence.