How to remove lice from children's heads? - briefly
Apply a medicated shampoo or lotion containing permethrin, then remove nits with a fine‑toothed lice comb. Repeat the treatment after seven days and launder all bedding and clothing in hot water to prevent re‑infestation.
How to remove lice from children's heads? - in detail
Lice infestation in children requires immediate attention to stop spread and discomfort. Early detection relies on visual inspection of the scalp, particularly behind the ears and at the nape of the neck. Live insects appear as gray‑brown insects about the size of a sesame seed; their eggs (nits) cling tightly to hair shafts, usually within ¼ inch of the scalp.
The recommended protocol includes three complementary approaches: mechanical removal, topical pediculicides, and environmental decontamination. Mechanical removal eliminates both insects and eggs without chemical exposure. Topical agents—permethrin 1 % or pyrethrin‑based formulations—are applied according to manufacturer instructions, typically leaving the product on the hair for 10 minutes before rinsing. Natural alternatives, such as dimethicone‑based lotions, suffocate lice but may require repeated applications.
Step‑by‑step manual removal:
- Wet the hair with a fine‑tooth comb‑compatible conditioner to reduce slip.
- Section the hair into 1‑inch bundles using clips.
- Starting at the scalp, run a metal nit‑comb through each section from root to tip, moving the comb slowly to avoid breaking nits.
- After each pass, wipe the comb on a white tissue to verify removal of insects or eggs.
- Repeat the process for the entire head, then re‑comb after 7 days to capture any newly hatched lice.
Post‑treatment measures focus on preventing reinfestation. Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels used in the previous 48 hours at ≥ 60 °C; dry items on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture, then discard vacuum bags or clean canisters. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in plastic bags for two weeks, the typical lifespan of a louse.
Professional evaluation becomes necessary when:
- Infestation persists after two complete treatment cycles.
- Severe scalp irritation or secondary infection develops.
- Resistance to standard pediculicides is suspected.
Adhering to the outlined procedures maximizes eradication success and minimizes the risk of recurrence.