What should be done if lice appear in the hair? - briefly
Apply an over‑the‑counter lice treatment (shampoo, lotion, or spray) and comb the hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb to remove live insects and eggs. Wash all recently used clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water and dry on high heat to prevent re‑infestation.
What should be done if lice appear in the hair? - in detail
When head lice are detected, immediate action prevents widespread infestation and reduces discomfort. The following protocol outlines the essential measures.
- Confirm the presence of Pediculus humanus capitis by examining the scalp and hair under bright light. Look for live insects, nits attached to hair shafts within 2 mm of the scalp, and signs of scratching.
- Isolate personal items that may harbor eggs: hats, scarves, hair accessories, pillowcases, and bedding. Wash these at ≥ 60 °C or seal in a plastic bag for 48 hours to eliminate viable stages.
- Apply a licensed pediculicide according to the product label. Common active ingredients include permethrin 1 %, pyrethrins with piperonyl butoxide, or dimethicone. Follow these steps:
- Dispense the medication onto dry hair, ensuring complete coverage from scalp to tips.
- Massage gently to distribute the product evenly.
- Leave the preparation on for the specified duration, typically 10‑15 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water; avoid hot water, which may degrade the active compound.
- After treatment, comb the hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb while still damp. Remove all visible lice and nits, wiping the comb after each pass. Repeat the combing process at least three times, spaced 5‑7 days apart, to capture newly hatched insects.
- Conduct a second application of the pediculicide after 7‑10 days, as recommended by most guidelines. This eliminates any survivors that emerged from eggs missed during the first round.
- Advise close contacts—family members, classmates, or caregivers—to inspect their hair and, if necessary, undergo parallel treatment to curb reinfestation.
- Maintain preventive habits: discourage head‑to‑head contact, avoid sharing personal hair items, and perform routine scalp checks, especially in settings with high transmission risk.
If allergic reactions or treatment failure occur, consult a healthcare professional for alternative therapies, such as oral ivermectin or prescription‑strength lotions. Documentation of the infestation and actions taken supports follow‑up and school or workplace reporting requirements.