How to treat lice on a human head? - briefly
Apply an FDA‑approved pediculicidal shampoo or lotion according to the label, leave it on for the specified time, and repeat the treatment after 7–10 days; meanwhile, comb wet hair with a fine‑tooth nit comb to extract eggs. Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water, dry on high heat, and inspect close contacts to prevent re‑infestation.
How to treat lice on a human head? - in detail
Treating head‑lice infestation requires a systematic approach that combines chemical or physical agents, thorough combing, and environmental control.
First, select an appropriate pediculicide. Over‑the‑counter shampoos or lotions containing 1 % permethrin, 0.5 % pyrethrin with piperonyl butoxide, or 0.05 % malathion are effective against live insects. For resistant cases, prescription‑only options such as 0.5 % ivermectin lotion or 0.6 % spinosad are recommended. Apply the product according to the label: wet the hair, distribute the medication evenly, leave it for the specified duration (usually 10 – 15 minutes), then rinse thoroughly.
Second, remove surviving nits mechanically. After the chemical treatment, use a fine‑toothed nit comb on damp hair. Work from the scalp outward, section by section, wiping the comb on a white towel after each pass to identify captured eggs. Repeat combing at least three times over a 7‑day period, as newly hatched lice emerge from eggs that may have survived the initial application.
Third, address potential re‑infestation. Wash all recently worn clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in plastic bags for two weeks. Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture to remove detached lice or eggs.
Fourth, monitor and repeat treatment if necessary. Examine the scalp daily for live insects or viable nits. If live lice are observed 7–10 days after the first application, administer a second dose of the same pediculicide or switch to an alternative class to avoid resistance.
Finally, educate all household members. Ensure that everyone checks their hair and follows the same protocol to prevent cross‑contamination.
Summary of steps
- Choose and apply a suitable pediculicide per instructions.
- Comb hair with a nit comb repeatedly over a week.
- Launder or isolate personal items at high temperature.
- Re‑treat if live lice persist after the initial cycle.
- Conduct household-wide checks and repeat as needed.
Adhering to this protocol eliminates the infestation efficiently and minimizes the likelihood of recurrence.