How to remove lice at home for children? - briefly
Apply an approved lice shampoo, then comb the hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb while the scalp is still damp; repeat the combing after 7–10 days. Wash all clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water or seal them in airtight containers for two weeks.
How to remove lice at home for children? - in detail
Head lice infestations in children require prompt, thorough action to eliminate the insects and prevent reinfestation. Begin by confirming the presence of live lice or viable nits within two centimeters of the scalp. Use a fine-toothed lice comb on damp hair, checking the comb after each pass for live bugs or eggs.
Prepare a treatment regimen that combines chemical or natural agents with mechanical removal. Options include over‑the‑counter pediculicides containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin, as well as dimethicone‑based lotions that suffocate lice without neurotoxic chemicals. Follow the product instructions precisely: apply to dry hair, ensure full coverage from scalp to tips, leave for the specified duration, then rinse thoroughly.
After chemical application, conduct a systematic combing session:
- Divide hair into sections of about two inches.
- Starting at the scalp, run the lice comb down to the ends.
- Wipe the comb on a white paper towel after each pass to detect captured insects.
- Repeat the process for each section, then re‑comb the entire head at least twice daily for seven days.
Clean the environment to remove stray nits and prevent re‑infestation:
- Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
- Soak hairbrushes, combs, and hair accessories in hot water (≥ 130 °F) for ten minutes, then scrub and dry.
Monitor progress by inspecting the scalp every 24 hours. Persistent live lice after the second treatment cycle indicate possible resistance; consider switching to a dimethicone product or consulting a healthcare professional. If severe irritation, allergic reaction, or infestation persists beyond ten days, seek medical advice for alternative prescription options.