The head itches after lice – what should be done? - briefly
Treat the infestation with an approved pediculicide, then launder all bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water and thoroughly vacuum the living area. Apply a soothing anti‑itch lotion or an oral antihistamine to alleviate residual itching.
The head itches after lice – what should be done? - in detail
Lice infestations trigger an immediate itching sensation caused by an allergic reaction to the insect’s saliva. The first step is to confirm the presence of live lice or viable nits on the scalp. Use a fine‑toothed comb on wet hair, section by section, and inspect the comb for moving insects or oval, white‑colored eggs attached to hair shafts within a half‑inch of the scalp.
Once infestation is verified, apply an approved pediculicide according to the product label. Common active ingredients include permethrin (1 %) and pyrethrin‑based formulations. Apply the solution to dry hair, massage into the scalp, leave for the recommended duration (usually 10 minutes), then rinse thoroughly. A second treatment, typically 7–10 days later, eliminates newly hatched lice that survived the first application.
To alleviate itching while the medication works, consider the following adjunct measures:
- Wash the scalp with a mild, fragrance‑free shampoo to remove residue.
- Apply a topical antihistamine cream (e.g., diphenhydramine 1 %) to reduce inflammation; follow package instructions.
- Use a cold compress for a few minutes to soothe intense pruritus.
- Avoid scratching, which can breach the skin barrier and lead to secondary bacterial infection.
Environmental control prevents re‑infestation:
- Launder all bedding, towels, and clothing used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in sealed plastic bags for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard vacuum bags immediately.
- Disinfect combs, brushes, and hair accessories by soaking in hot water (≥ 50 °C) for 10 minutes.
If itching persists beyond the treatment cycle, or if signs of infection appear (redness, swelling, pus, fever), seek medical evaluation. Prescription‑strength oral ivermectin or topical spinosad may be required for resistant cases. Regular follow‑up examinations ensure complete eradication and reduce the risk of recurrence.