How to remove lice from a child's head? - briefly
Apply a medicated lice shampoo, then comb the damp hair with a fine‑tooth nit comb, repeating the process every 2–3 days for two weeks while laundering bedding and clothing in hot water. Inspect the scalp daily and manually remove any remaining nits.
How to remove lice from a child's head? - in detail
Detecting an infestation promptly allows treatment to begin before the lice population expands. Adult lice and nits are visible near the scalp, especially behind the ears and at the nape. Use a fine‑toothed metal comb on damp hair; a live louse will move when the comb passes, while a nit remains attached to the hair shaft.
Choose a treatment based on severity, age, and tolerance. Over‑the‑counter pediculicides containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin are approved for children older than two months. Apply the product according to the label, leave it for the recommended time, then rinse thoroughly. For resistant cases, prescription options such as 0.5 % malathion or 0.05 % ivermectin may be required; a healthcare professional should prescribe them.
If chemical agents are unsuitable, a mechanical approach works reliably. Follow these steps:
- Wet the hair with warm water; add a conditioner to reduce friction.
- Section the hair and run a fine‑toothed comb from the scalp to the ends, pulling each section straight.
- After each pass, wipe the comb on a white tissue to confirm removal of live insects.
- Repeat the combing process every 2–3 days for two weeks to capture newly hatched nymphs.
Environmental control minimizes re‑infestation. Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered may be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks. Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture to remove stray nits.
Conduct a second inspection 7–10 days after the initial treatment. If any live lice remain, repeat the chosen chemical or mechanical method. Continue monitoring for an additional two weeks, as the life cycle of the parasite lasts about 9 days.
Maintain regular checks every month during the school year. Early detection, consistent treatment, and thorough cleaning of personal items together provide an effective strategy for eliminating head lice from a child’s scalp.