What should be done if lice are in long hair? - briefly
Apply a lice‑killing shampoo or lotion as directed, then comb the damp hair thoroughly with a fine‑toothed lice comb from scalp to tips, removing all nits. Repeat the treatment after 7–10 days and launder bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water to eliminate any remaining insects.
What should be done if lice are in long hair? - in detail
When lice infest long hair, begin with a thorough inspection. Separate the hair into sections of about three inches, using clips or pins, and examine each strand with a fine-tooth comb under bright light. Look for live insects, nits attached to the hair shaft within a quarter‑inch of the scalp, and any eggs that may be hidden near the roots.
1. Select an appropriate treatment.
• Over‑the‑counter pediculicides (permethrin 1 % or pyrethrin‑based products) are applied according to the label, left on the scalp for the specified time, then rinsed.
• If resistance is suspected, prescription‑only agents such as ivermectin lotion or malathion 0.5 % may be used under medical supervision.
• Non‑chemical options include a thorough wet‑comb method: after shampooing, apply a generous amount of conditioner, then comb each section with a fine‑tooth nit comb from the scalp outward, wiping the comb blade after each pass.
2. Perform the wet‑comb procedure at least twice a week for four weeks.
• Each session should last 30–45 minutes, ensuring every strand is processed.
• Collect removed lice and nits in a disposable container and discard them outside the home.
3. Treat the environment.
• Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
• Seal non‑washable items in sealed plastic bags for two weeks.
• Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
4. Monitor for recurrence.
• Re‑inspect the hair every three days for the first two weeks, then weekly for an additional month.
• If live lice are observed after the initial treatment cycle, repeat the pediculicide application after seven days, as recommended by the product label.
5. Prevent future infestations.
• Avoid sharing combs, brushes, hats, or hair accessories.
• Encourage regular head‑to‑head checks in settings where close contact is common (e.g., schools, sports teams).
• Maintain short, manageable haircuts for children prone to repeated infestations, though this is not mandatory for treatment success.
Following these steps eliminates the infestation, removes residual eggs, and reduces the risk of re‑infestation in long hair.