What quickly removes lice from a child's head at home? - briefly
Use a 1 % permethrin lotion according to the package directions, then comb the hair thoroughly with a fine‑toothed nit comb, rinsing the comb in hot, soapy water. Repeat the process after 7–10 days to eradicate any newly hatched nits.
What quickly removes lice from a child's head at home? - in detail
Effective at‑home lice eradication for a child’s scalp requires a systematic approach that combines chemical treatment, mechanical removal, and environmental decontamination.
Begin with a proven over‑the‑counter pediculicide. Choose a product containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin, following the label for dosage, application time (usually ten minutes), and repeat interval (typically seven days). Ensure the child’s hair is dry before applying, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
After chemical treatment, perform a wet‑combing session to extract any surviving insects and nits. Follow these steps:
- Saturate hair with a generous amount of conditioner.
- Use a fine‑toothed nit comb, starting at the scalp and moving outward.
- Divide hair into sections; comb each section from root to tip.
- Wipe the comb on a white cloth after each pass to detect lice.
- Repeat the process every 2–3 days for two weeks.
If chemical options are unsuitable, adopt a non‑chemical protocol:
- Apply a mixture of 1 % dimethicone lotion (available in pharmacies) to damp hair; leave for 30 minutes, then rinse.
- Follow immediately with wet‑combing as described above.
- Repeat the treatment after seven days.
Both methods require thorough cleaning of personal items:
- Wash clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes.
- Seal non‑washable items (e.g., stuffed toys) in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats; discard vacuum bags promptly.
Monitor the child’s scalp daily for live lice or viable nits. If live insects persist after two treatment cycles, consult a healthcare professional for prescription‑strength options such as malathion or ivermectin.