How to treat lice on a child? - briefly
Use an FDA‑approved pediculicide formulated for children, applying it precisely as directed and then combing out nits with a fine‑toothed lice comb after 7–10 days, repeating the treatment if necessary. Clean bedding, clothing, and personal items by washing in hot water or sealing them in plastic bags for two weeks to eliminate any remaining eggs.
How to treat lice on a child? - in detail
Head lice infestations require prompt and thorough action to eliminate the parasites and prevent re‑infestation.
First, confirm the presence of live insects or viable nits within three centimeters of the scalp. Use a fine‑tooth comb on damp hair, inspecting the comb after each pass.
Effective chemical treatments include:
- Permethrin 1 % lotion applied to dry hair, left for ten minutes, then rinsed.
- Pyrethrin with piperonyl‑butoxide, applied similarly, for cases where resistance to permethrin is suspected.
- Prescription options such as malathion 0.5 % or benzyl alcohol 5 % lotion for resistant infestations.
Apply the chosen product according to the label, covering the entire scalp and hair to the tips. Repeat the application after seven to ten days to destroy newly hatched nymphs.
Manual removal can complement chemicals or serve as the sole method when families prefer non‑chemical approaches. Use a stainless‑steel nit comb, pulling the comb through sections of hair from scalp outward. Perform the process every two to three days for two weeks, ensuring all nits are extracted.
Environmental decontamination limits re‑exposure:
- Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard vacuum bags immediately.
Monitor the child’s scalp for four weeks after treatment. If live lice reappear, reassess the treatment choice, verify proper application, and consider a different pediculicide or a combined chemical‑manual regimen.
Preventive measures include regular head checks, discouraging sharing of hats, hair accessories, and personal items, and educating caregivers about early detection.