What can be used to treat lice on the head? - briefly
Effective treatments include over‑the‑counter pediculicides such as 1 % permethrin or pyrethrin shampoos, prescription options like malathion, ivermectin, or benzyl alcohol lotion, and thorough combing with a fine‑tooth lice comb. All methods should be combined with washing of bedding and clothing to prevent re‑infestation.
What can be used to treat lice on the head? - in detail
Effective control of head‑lice infestations relies on a combination of chemical, physical, and preventive measures.
Over‑the‑counter pediculicides contain neurotoxic agents that disrupt the insect’s nervous system. Common active ingredients include:
- Permethrin 1 % lotion, applied to dry hair for 10 minutes before rinsing.
- Pyrethrin combined with piperonyl butoxide, used similarly to permethrin.
- Dimethicone, a silicone‑based oil that suffocates lice and nits without neurotoxic effects.
- Malathion 0.5 % lotion, reserved for resistant cases; requires a 10‑minute exposure and careful handling.
Prescription options address resistant strains. These include:
- Spinosad 0.9 % topical suspension, applied for 10 minutes, approved for children older than 12 months.
- Ivermectin 0.5 % lotion, a single 10‑minute application, effective against both lice and eggs.
- Benzyl alcohol 5 % lotion, a 10‑minute treatment that kills lice through asphyxiation; requires a repeat dose after 7 days.
Physical interventions eliminate parasites without chemicals. Strategies consist of:
- Wet‑combing with a fine‑toothed nit comb, performed on damp, conditioned hair for 10–15 minutes, repeated every 2–3 days for two weeks.
- High‑temperature devices that blow heated air at 130 °C to desiccate lice and nits; usage follows manufacturer safety guidelines.
- Enclosure of personal items (bedding, hats, brushes) in sealed plastic bags for at least 48 hours to deprive lice of a host.
Environmental control supports treatment success. Measures include:
- Washing clothing and bedding in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and drying on high heat.
- Vacuuming carpets and upholstered furniture to remove stray nits.
- Avoiding direct head‑to‑head contact and sharing of personal items.
A comprehensive regimen typically combines a pediculicide with thorough nit removal, followed by a second application 7–10 days later to eradicate any newly hatched lice. Monitoring for treatment failure is essential; persistent infestation may indicate resistance, necessitating a prescription medication or alternative physical method.