How to treat lice on a child's hair? - briefly
Apply a pediatric‑approved pediculicide shampoo or lotion, following the product’s instructions and repeat the application after 7–10 days to target newly hatched nits. Comb the hair with a fine‑toothed lice comb daily for a week and launder bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water to prevent reinfestation.
How to treat lice on a child's hair? - in detail
Head lice infestations require prompt, systematic action. Begin by confirming the presence of live insects or viable nits attached within ¼ inch of the scalp. Use a fine-toothed lice comb on damp hair; move the comb from the scalp outward, inspecting each section for moving lice or brownish shells.
First‑line chemical treatments consist of pediculicides containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin with piperonyl butoxide. Apply according to the product label, leaving the solution on the scalp for the specified duration, then rinse thoroughly. A second application 7–10 days later eliminates newly hatched insects that survived the initial dose. For resistant cases, prescription options such as 0.5 % malathion, 0.1 % ivermectin lotion, or oral ivermectin may be required; these should be administered under medical supervision.
Non‑chemical methods include thorough wet combing. After washing the child’s hair, apply a generous amount of conditioner, then comb with a lice‑specific fine-tooth device every 2–3 days for two weeks. Remove each captured louse and nits, discarding the comb’s teeth after each pass to prevent re‑infestation.
Environmental control complements direct treatment. Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
Follow‑up inspection is essential. Examine the child’s hair 1 week after the second chemical application or after the final wet‑combing session. Absence of live lice and any nits within ¼ inch of the scalp indicates successful eradication. If live insects persist, repeat the appropriate treatment cycle.
Preventive measures reduce recurrence risk. Advise against sharing hats, hairbrushes, or headphones. Encourage regular scalp checks, especially after sleepovers or group activities. Maintaining short, clean hair simplifies detection and treatment if future infestations arise.