How to treat lice in a child under one year old? - briefly
Use a pediatric‑approved 1 % permethrin lotion applied to the infant’s scalp for ten minutes, then rinse thoroughly and repeat after seven days; simultaneously wash all bedding, clothing, and toys in hot water or seal them in a plastic bag for two weeks. Consult a doctor before treatment to confirm safety and dosage.
How to treat lice in a child under one year old? - in detail
Treating head‑lice infestation in babies under twelve months requires a cautious, evidence‑based approach because many standard pediculicides are not approved for this age group. The first step is to confirm the presence of live lice or viable nits attached to the hair shaft near the scalp. Visual inspection with a fine‑tooth comb under bright light helps differentiate between viable eggs and empty shells.
Non‑chemical options
- Wet‑combing: Soak the child’s hair with lukewarm water, apply a generous amount of conditioner, and comb through with a fine‑tooth lice comb. Repeat every 2–3 days for two weeks.
- Manual removal: Use tweezers or a fine comb to extract individual lice and nits, placing them in a sealed container for disposal.
- Environmental control: Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels used in the past 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat. Seal items that cannot be laundered in a plastic bag for two weeks.
Pharmacologic interventions
Only two topical agents have FDA approval for infants younger than one year: 1% permethrin lotion and 0.5% malathion shampoo, both applied according to the product label. A single application is followed by a repeat dose after 7–10 days to target newly hatched nits. Use a calibrated applicator to ensure coverage of the scalp without excess runoff. Monitor the skin for irritation; discontinue use if redness, swelling, or rash develops.
When to seek professional care
- Persistent infestation after two treatment cycles.
- Signs of secondary bacterial infection (e.g., crusted lesions, pus).
- Allergic reaction to any topical agent.
- Uncertainty about correct application technique.
Follow‑up
Schedule a re‑examination 7–10 days after the initial treatment to verify eradication. Continue weekly wet‑combing for an additional two weeks to catch any late hatching nits. Document the dates of each intervention and any adverse reactions.
Adhering to these steps maximizes the likelihood of complete elimination while minimizing risk to the infant’s delicate skin.