How to treat lice if they appear? - briefly
Apply an FDA‑approved pediculicide, such as permethrin 1% lotion, to the scalp, follow the label‑specified exposure time, rinse, and comb out live nits with a fine‑toothed nit comb. Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water and repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eradicate any newly hatched lice.
How to treat lice if they appear? - in detail
When a lice infestation is detected, immediate action is essential to eliminate the parasites and prevent re‑colonisation. The following protocol covers chemical, mechanical, and environmental measures.
First, select an appropriate pediculicide. Permethrin 1 % lotion, pyrethrin‑based shampoos, or dimethicone‑based products are the most widely recommended. Apply the product according to the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring thorough coverage of the scalp and hair shafts. Leave the solution on for the specified duration, then rinse completely. For resistant cases, a second‑line agent such as malathion 0.5 % or benzyl alcohol 5 % may be prescribed.
Second, remove live insects and eggs manually. Use a fine‑toothed nit comb on wet, conditioned hair. Comb from the scalp outward in sections, wiping the comb after each pass. Repeat the combing process at least twice, 7‑10 days apart, to catch nymphs that hatched after the initial treatment.
Third, decontaminate personal items and the environment. Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks or exposed to a freezer at –20 °C for 24 hours. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats to remove detached nits.
Fourth, monitor for recurrence. Examine the scalp and hair daily for the first week, then weekly for another three weeks. If live lice reappear, repeat the chemical treatment after 7 days, combined with another round of nit combing.
Finally, educate all household members. Inform them of the need to avoid sharing combs, hats, or hair accessories, and to perform regular self‑checks during an outbreak.
By integrating topical medication, meticulous combing, thorough cleaning of surroundings, and vigilant follow‑up, an infestation can be eradicated efficiently and sustainably.