What should be done if lice are found in hair? - briefly
Apply an approved lice treatment and meticulously comb out all nits. Wash clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water, then repeat the treatment after seven days.
What should be done if lice are found in hair? - in detail
When live insects are discovered in a person’s scalp, immediate action is required to eliminate the infestation and prevent spread.
First, confirm the presence of nits or adult parasites by inspecting the hair close to the scalp. Use a fine-tooth comb on a well‑lit surface; live lice move quickly, while nits appear as tiny, oval, yellow‑brown shells attached to the shaft.
Immediate measures
- Separate the affected individual from others to limit transmission.
- Apply a topical pediculicide approved for scalp use according to the product label—typically a 10‑minute exposure followed by thorough rinsing.
- After the chemical treatment, run a fine‑tooth comb through damp hair, starting at the roots and moving toward the tips. Remove each live insect and nit; repeat the combing at least twice daily for one week.
Alternative treatments
- Prescription oral ivermectin for resistant cases, administered under medical supervision.
- Dimethicone‑based lotions that suffocate lice without neurotoxic chemicals; apply to dry hair, leave for the recommended period, then rinse and comb.
Environmental control
- Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in airtight bags for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
- Avoid sharing combs, hats, or hair accessories until the infestation is cleared.
Follow‑up
- Perform a second chemical treatment 7–10 days after the first application to eradicate any newly hatched lice that survived the initial dose.
- Conduct a final combing session 14 days after the first treatment; any remaining nits indicate incomplete eradication and require repeat of the full protocol.
- Inform close contacts (family members, classmates) so they can inspect and, if necessary, treat themselves.
Adhering strictly to the outlined steps eliminates the parasite, reduces re‑infestation risk, and restores a lice‑free environment.