What should be applied on the head for lice? - briefly
Apply an FDA‑approved pediculicide—commonly a 1 % permethrin shampoo or a dimethicone‑based lotion—according to the product’s directions. Then comb out any remaining nits with a fine‑toothed nit comb.
What should be applied on the head for lice? - in detail
Effective treatment of head‑lice infestation requires a topical agent that kills both adult insects and newly hatched nits. The most widely recommended products fall into two categories: chemical pediculicides and physical‑action formulations.
Chemical pediculicides are applied directly to the scalp and hair, left for the time specified on the label, then rinsed off. Common options include:
- 1 % permethrin lotion, applied for 10 minutes; repeat after 7 days.
- Pyrethrin‑based spray with piperonyl‑butoxide, applied for 10 minutes; repeat after 7 days.
- 0.5 % malathion solution, applied for 8 hours; repeat after 7 days.
- 10 % benzyl‑alcohol lotion, applied for 10 minutes; repeat after 7 days.
- 0.5 % ivermectin lotion, applied for 10 minutes; single application may suffice.
- 0.9 % spinosad suspension, applied for 10 minutes; repeat after 7 days.
Physical‑action products contain silicone‑based compounds such as dimethicone. These substances coat the lice, causing dehydration and death without relying on neurotoxic mechanisms. Application involves covering the hair with the lotion or spray, massaging for several minutes, and leaving it on for the recommended period (typically 10–15 minutes). No repeat treatment is usually required, though thorough combing with a fine‑toothed nit comb is advised.
Application protocol:
- Separate hair into sections; apply the product evenly from scalp to tips.
- Ensure complete coverage of the entire scalp, including behind the ears and at the nape.
- Observe the prescribed exposure time; do not exceed it.
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water; avoid hot water that may irritate the skin.
- After drying, use a nit comb to remove dead insects and eggs.
- Perform a second combing session 7–10 days later to capture any surviving nits.
Precautions:
- Verify age limits; some agents are unsuitable for children under 2 months.
- Conduct a patch test to detect allergic reactions before full application.
- Keep the product away from eyes, mouth, and open wounds.
- Follow manufacturer’s instructions regarding ventilation and protective clothing.
Additional measures to prevent re‑infestation:
- Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water (≥ 60 °C) or seal them in a plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture.
- Avoid sharing hats, hairbrushes, or headphones.
A combination of a proven topical agent, meticulous combing, and environmental decontamination yields the highest success rate in eradicating head‑lice infestations.