What and how to treat during lice? - briefly
Effective treatment involves applying a pediculicide shampoo or lotion to the scalp for the specified time, then combing with a fine-toothed nit comb to eliminate lice and nits; repeat the application after 7–10 days. Wash clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water and dry on high heat to prevent re‑infestation.
What and how to treat during lice? - in detail
Head lice infestations are diagnosed by visual inspection of the scalp and hair. Live insects, nymphs, and viable eggs (nits) appear attached to hair shafts within a few centimeters of the scalp. Confirmation requires finding at least one adult or nymph; the presence of multiple nits alone does not constitute an infestation.
Effective management combines chemical or physical agents with thorough mechanical removal. Recommended options include:
- Over‑the‑counter pediculicides containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin with piperonyl butoxide. Apply to dry hair, leave for the specified time (usually 10 minutes), then rinse and repeat after 7–10 days to kill newly hatched lice.
- Prescription‑only products such as 0.5 % malathion, 0.05 % ivermectin, or 0.025 % spinosad. Use according to label directions; many require a single application without a repeat dose.
- Dimethicone‑based lotions that suffocate insects. Apply to damp hair, cover for 10 minutes, then rinse. No resistance has been reported.
- Manual removal using a fine‑toothed nit comb on wet, conditioned hair. Perform combing every 2–3 days for two weeks, ensuring all visible nits are extracted.
- Heat treatment devices that raise hair temperature to 50 °C for a prescribed duration. Follow manufacturer safety guidelines to avoid scalp burns.
After chemical or physical treatment, repeat the combing process to eliminate any surviving nits. Wash bedding, hats, scarves, and personal items in hot water (≥ 55 °C) or seal them in plastic bags for two weeks to prevent re‑infestation. Vacuum upholstered furniture and carpets to remove detached lice.
Prevention relies on minimizing head‑to‑head contact, avoiding sharing combs, brushes, hats, or hair accessories, and conducting regular scalp checks in environments where lice are common. Schools and childcare facilities should implement routine screening and prompt notification of affected families to limit spread.