What products can be used for lice in a child? - briefly
Permethrin 1 % lotion, pyrethrin‑piperonyl‑butoxide spray, dimethicone‑based head lotion, selenium‑sulfide shampoo, and tea‑tree‑oil formulations are commonly used for treating head lice in children. Wet combing with a fine‑tooth nit comb can be employed alongside or after chemical treatment to remove remaining nits.
What products can be used for lice in a child? - in detail
Effective treatments for pediatric head lice include both pharmaceutical and non‑chemical options.
Pharmaceutical preparations approved for children:
- Permethrin 1 % shampoo or lotion, applied to dry hair, left for 10 minutes, then rinsed; repeat after 7–10 days.
- Pyrethrin combined with piperonyl‑butoxide, used similarly to permethrin; suitable for children older than 2 years.
- Benzyl‑alcohol lotion 5 % (Ulesfia), applied to dry hair for 10 minutes, then washed off; repeat after 7 days; approved for children aged 6 months and older.
- Malathion 0.5 % lotion, applied to dry hair for 8–12 hours, then rinsed; repeat after 7 days; indicated for children 6 years and older.
- Ivermectin 0.5 % lotion, applied to dry hair for 10 minutes, then washed off; repeat after 7 days; approved for children 6 months and older.
Non‑chemical methods:
- Dimethicone‑based products (silicone oils) that coat lice and nits, applied to wet hair, left for 10 minutes, then combed and rinsed; repeat after 7 days.
- Wet‑combing technique using a fine‑toothed nit comb, performed on damp hair for 10 minutes per session, repeated every 2–3 days for two weeks.
Safety considerations:
- Verify age‑specific labeling before use.
- Avoid products containing neurotoxic agents in infants under 2 months.
- Follow manufacturer instructions regarding contact time and rinsing.
- Monitor for skin irritation; discontinue if rash develops.
Environmental measures:
- Wash bedding, clothing, and hats in hot water (≥ 60 °C) or seal in plastic bags for 48 hours.
- Vacuum carpets and upholstery to remove stray nits.
Combining a suitable topical treatment with thorough combing and environmental decontamination maximizes eradication and reduces reinfestation risk.