What should be done if there are lice eggs on the hair? - briefly
Apply a fine‑tooth nit comb to dry, conditioned hair, working from the scalp outward to extract all eggs, then wash the comb, bedding, and clothing in hot water. If any live lice remain, treat the scalp with an approved pediculicide and repeat the combing after 7–10 days to catch newly hatched nits.
What should be done if there are lice eggs on the hair? - in detail
If nits are discovered in the scalp hair, immediate action is required to prevent infestation spread and eliminate the eggs.
First, isolate the affected individual. Wash all bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) or place them in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks to kill any hidden eggs.
Next, treat the hair directly:
- Apply a pediculicide lotion or shampoo that contains permethrin (1 %) or pyrethrin, following the product’s instructions precisely. Leave the solution on the scalp for the recommended duration, then rinse thoroughly.
- After the chemical treatment, use a fine‑toothed nit comb (spacing ≤0.2 mm) on wet, conditioned hair. Start at the scalp, pull the comb through to the ends, and wipe the teeth after each pass. Repeat the combing every 2–3 days for at least ten days to capture any newly hatched lice.
- If resistance to standard agents is suspected, consider a prescription‑only treatment such as malathion 0.5 % or ivermectin lotion, administered under medical supervision.
Adjunct measures:
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and vehicle seats to remove stray eggs.
- Disinfect hairbrushes, combs, and hair accessories by soaking them in hot, soapy water for 10 minutes, then rinsing and drying.
- Advise close contacts to inspect their hair and, if necessary, repeat the same treatment protocol.
Finally, schedule a follow‑up examination after two weeks to confirm the absence of live insects and residual nits. Continuous monitoring and strict hygiene practices will eradicate the problem and reduce the risk of recurrence.