How to get rid of lice in a child? - briefly
Apply a 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % malathion preparation to the scalp, leave it for the recommended duration, then rinse and remove nits with a fine‑toothed comb. Wash clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water and repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eradicate any newly hatched insects.
How to get rid of lice in a child? - in detail
Eliminate head lice in a child by following a systematic approach that includes identification, treatment, and prevention.
First, confirm infestation. Examine the scalp under bright light, part hair in sections, and look for live lice or nits attached within ¼ inch of the hair shaft. Use a fine-toothed comb to separate strands and improve visibility. If lice are present, proceed to treatment without delay.
Choose a treatment method. Options include:
- Over‑the‑counter pediculicides – shampoos or lotions containing permethrin (1 %) or pyrethrin. Apply according to the product label, leave for the recommended time, then rinse thoroughly.
- Prescription agents – malathion (0.5 %) or ivermectin lotion for resistant cases. These require a doctor’s prescription and must be used exactly as directed.
- Physical removal – wet‑comb technique with a nit‑comb. Soak hair, apply a conditioner to reduce slip, then comb from scalp to tip in 1‑inch sections. Repeat every 2–3 days for at least two weeks.
After the primary treatment, repeat the process 7–10 days later to kill newly hatched lice. A second application of the chemical product or another round of wet‑combing is essential to prevent resurgence.
Implement environmental controls:
- Wash the child’s clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Seal non‑washable items (e.g., stuffed toys) in a sealed bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats to remove stray nits.
Educate caregivers and peers. Instruct them to avoid sharing combs, hats, or hair accessories. Conduct a brief inspection of classmates’ hair if an outbreak occurs at school, and notify the institution’s health office.
Monitor the child for three weeks after treatment. If live lice reappear, reassess the product’s effectiveness and consider a different pediculicide or a prescription option. Persistent infestation may warrant a medical evaluation for possible resistance or secondary skin irritation.
By combining accurate detection, appropriate chemical or mechanical treatment, thorough cleaning of personal items, and ongoing monitoring, a child can be cleared of head lice and the risk of reinfestation minimized.