How to get rid of lice on a child's head? - briefly
Apply a child‑safe pediculicide and comb the hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb while the scalp is wet, then repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eradicate newly hatched eggs. Clean bedding, clothing, and household surfaces in hot water or by vacuuming to remove any remaining lice or nits.
How to get rid of lice on a child's head? - in detail
Detecting an infestation early prevents spreading. Look for live insects, eggs (nits) attached close to the scalp, and intense itching. Use a fine-toothed lice comb on damp hair, starting at the neck and moving toward the crown. Separate each strand, pulling the comb slowly to capture both lice and nits.
Treatment options
- Over‑the‑counter pediculicides: Shampoo or lotion containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin. Apply according to package instructions, leave on scalp for the recommended time, then rinse. Repeat after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched insects.
- Prescription medications: 0.5 % malathion, 0.05 % ivermectin, or benzyl alcohol lotion. Use when resistance to OTC products is suspected or when previous attempts failed. Follow the physician’s dosage schedule precisely.
- Physical removal: Wet‑comb method with a fine‑toothed nit comb. Perform daily for at least 10 days, rinsing the comb in hot water after each pass. This approach avoids chemicals and works for sensitive skin.
- Alternative agents: Dimethicone‑based lotions or silicone oils can suffocate lice. Apply thickly, cover with a shower cap, leave for 30 minutes, then wash out. Use only products labeled for head‑lice treatment.
Environmental decontamination
- Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items (toys, hats) in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately.
- Do not fumigate the home; it offers no added benefit.
Follow‑up
- Re‑inspect hair 7–10 days after the first treatment. Remove any remaining nits with the comb.
- Conduct a second treatment round if live lice are observed.
- Monitor all household members; treat anyone with signs of infestation to prevent re‑colonization.
Prevention
- Advise children to avoid head‑to‑head contact and sharing of combs, hats, or hair accessories.
- Encourage regular scalp checks, especially after school or camp activities.
- Maintain clean, dry hair; excessive oil or heavy styling products can hinder comb effectiveness.
By combining chemical or physical eradication methods with thorough cleaning and vigilant follow‑up, a child’s scalp can be cleared of lice and the cycle of reinfestation broken.