How to treat hair mite in a person? - briefly
Apply a 5 % permethrin cream to the scalp, leave it on for 8–10 hours, then rinse and repeat after seven days. Launder all clothing, towels, and bedding at high temperature to prevent reinfestation.
How to treat hair mite in a person? - in detail
Hair mites, primarily Pediculus humanus capitis (head lice) or Demodex species, infest the scalp and cause itching, irritation, and possible secondary infection. Effective management requires accurate diagnosis, targeted pharmacotherapy, and environmental decontamination.
Diagnosis begins with visual inspection of the scalp for live insects, viable eggs (nits), or translucent brownish specks near the hair shaft. A magnifying lens or dermatoscope enhances detection. Skin scraping may be performed to identify Demodex under microscopy.
Pharmacologic intervention includes:
- Topical insecticides: Permethrin 1 % lotion applied to dry hair, left for 10 minutes, then rinsed. Repeat after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched lice. Alternative agents are pyrethrin‑piperonyl‑butoxide or dimethicone‑based silicone oils, which immobilize insects without neurotoxic effects.
- Prescription creams: 0.5 % malathion or 0.1 % spinosad for resistant infestations; apply according to manufacturer instructions and wash out after the recommended exposure period.
- Oral therapy: Ivermectin 200 µg/kg single dose for severe or refractory cases; a second dose may be given after 7 days if necessary. Avoid in pregnant or lactating women unless benefits outweigh risks.
- Antibiotic ointments: Mupirocin or fusidic acid applied to excoriated areas to prevent bacterial superinfection.
Environmental measures complement medication:
- Wash all bedding, hats, scarves, and personal items in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for 2 weeks to starve surviving mites.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats; discard vacuum bags promptly.
- Advise close contacts to inspect and treat simultaneously to prevent reinfestation.
Follow‑up involves re‑examining the scalp 7–10 days after the initial treatment. Absence of live lice and viable nits confirms success. Persistent symptoms warrant repeat therapy or referral to a dermatologist for alternative diagnoses such as seborrheic dermatitis or fungal infection.
Patient education should emphasize avoidance of sharing personal hair accessories, regular hair washing with mild shampoo, and prompt treatment of any recurrence.