How to treat a child's head for lice prevention? - briefly
Use a mild, pediatric‑approved pediculicide (e.g., 1 % permethrin shampoo) applied to dry hair, left for the recommended time, then rinsed thoroughly; follow with a nit comb to remove any remaining eggs and repeat treatment after 7–10 days. Maintain regular hair inspections and wash bedding, hats, and personal items in hot water to prevent reinfestation.
How to treat a child's head for lice prevention? - in detail
Detecting an infestation early prevents spread. Examine the scalp and hair under bright light; look for live lice, nymphs, or brownish eggs attached near the scalp. If any are found, begin treatment immediately.
Choose an appropriate product. Over‑the‑counter shampoos or lotions containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin are first‑line options. Prescription‑strength 0.5 % malathion or 0.05 % ivermectin may be required for resistant cases. Natural alternatives such as dimethicone lotion or a mixture of tea‑tree oil (5 %) and coconut oil can be used when chemical agents are unsuitable, though efficacy data are limited.
Apply the chosen preparation according to the label:
- Wet the hair with warm water; do not use conditioner.
- Apply the product evenly from scalp to tips, ensuring full coverage.
- Leave the medication on for the specified duration (usually 10–15 minutes).
- Rinse thoroughly with water; avoid using hot water that could irritate the scalp.
- After the first treatment, repeat the application after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched lice.
Use a fine‑toothed nit comb to remove surviving lice and eggs. Comb the hair in sections, starting at the roots and moving toward the ends. Clean the comb after each pass with hot, soapy water.
Sanitize the environment to reduce re‑infestation:
- Wash all bedding, towels, and clothing used in the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats; discard vacuum bags immediately.
- Avoid sharing hats, hairbrushes, or headphones.
Monitor the child for three weeks after treatment. If live lice are observed after the second application, consult a healthcare professional for alternative therapy.
Prevent future outbreaks by enforcing the following practices:
- Conduct weekly scalp inspections, especially after playdates or school activities.
- Encourage children to keep hair tied back and avoid head‑to‑head contact during games.
- Provide personal grooming items (combs, brushes) for each child.
- Educate caregivers and teachers about early signs and proper response.
Following these steps eliminates current infestations and minimizes the risk of recurrence.