I found a louse on myself, what to do? - briefly
Use a fine-tooth comb to pull the louse out, then wash the affected area with hot water and shampoo, and launder all clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water or dry them on high heat. Follow up with a pediculicide treatment if any additional insects are detected.
I found a louse on myself, what to do? - in detail
Finding a head louse on your own body can be unsettling, but a systematic approach eliminates the problem quickly.
First, confirm the infestation. Lice are small, wing‑less insects about 2–4 mm long, typically found near the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, or body hair. Look for live insects, nits (eggs) attached to hair shafts, and itching caused by bites.
Second, remove the insects.
- Mechanical removal – Use a fine‑toothed lice comb on wet, conditioned hair. Comb from the scalp outward, rinsing the comb after each pass. Repeat every 2–3 days for at least two weeks.
- Chemical treatment – Apply an over‑the‑counter pediculicide containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin. Follow the product label precisely: leave the lotion or shampoo on for the recommended time, then rinse thoroughly. A second application after 7–10 days kills newly hatched lice.
- Alternative options – Dimethicone‑based products suffocate lice without neurotoxic chemicals. Essential‑oil mixtures (e.g., tea tree, neem) may reduce infestation but lack consistent clinical evidence; use only if approved by a healthcare professional.
Third, clean the environment.
- Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Seal items that cannot be laundered in a plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats to remove fallen lice and nits.
- Avoid sharing combs, hats, or hair accessories until the problem is resolved.
Fourth, monitor and prevent recurrence.
- Perform weekly comb checks for at least one month.
- Educate close contacts (family, classmates) about signs and encourage them to inspect their own hair.
- Encourage regular hair hygiene, but avoid excessive shampooing, which does not affect lice survival.
If symptoms persist after two treatment cycles, or if there is an allergic reaction to the medication, seek medical advice. Prescription‑strength options such as ivermectin or malathion may be necessary under professional supervision.