How to quickly get rid of fleas in hair? - briefly
Apply a medicated anti‑lice shampoo, then comb the hair with a fine‑tooth flea comb while it is still wet to extract all insects and eggs. Repeat the treatment after 24–48 hours to eliminate any survivors.
How to quickly get rid of fleas in hair? - in detail
Fleas may attach to the scalp when a person handles an infested pet or comes into contact with contaminated bedding. Immediate removal prevents itching, secondary infection, and further spread.
First, isolate the source. Wash any clothing, towels, and bedding in hot water (≥60 °C) and dry on high heat. Treat the pet with a veterinarian‑approved flea control product; otherwise, the adult insects will continue to lay eggs.
Mechanical removal on the head:
- Comb the hair with a fine‑toothed flea comb, starting at the crown and moving toward the hairline. Repeat every 15 minutes for two hours.
- Rinse the comb in hot, soapy water after each pass to kill captured insects.
- After combing, wash the scalp with a medicated shampoo containing pyrethrins or permethrin (1 % concentration). Apply, lather, leave for the recommended 5‑10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
Chemical options for rapid eradication:
- Apply a topical insecticide approved for human use, such as a 1 % permethrin lotion, following the label instructions. Do not exceed the suggested frequency (usually once daily for three days).
- For severe infestations, a single dose of oral ivermectin (200 µg/kg) may be prescribed by a physician; the effect appears within 24 hours.
Home remedies with limited evidence:
- Diluted tea tree oil (0.5 % in a carrier) can be sprayed on the scalp; leave for 10 minutes, then wash. Avoid concentrations above 1 % to prevent irritation.
- A mixture of white vinegar and water (1:1) applied with a spray bottle may help dislodge fleas; rinse after 5 minutes.
After treatment, monitor the scalp for residual itching or live insects for 48 hours. If symptoms persist, seek medical evaluation to rule out allergic reactions or secondary infection. Prevent future occurrences by maintaining regular flea control on pets, cleaning living areas frequently, and avoiding contact with untreated animals.