What should be used to treat a child's head for lice? - briefly
Apply a pediatric‑approved 1 % permethrin shampoo or lotion, follow the label instructions, and then remove remaining nits with a fine‑toothed lice comb. If resistance is a concern, use a dimethicone‑based product as an alternative.
What should be used to treat a child's head for lice? - in detail
Effective management of head‑lice infestation in children requires a combination of chemical and mechanical approaches, followed by preventive measures.
First‑line products are over‑the‑counter topical agents containing 1 % permethrin or a pyrethrin‑piperonyl‑butoxide mixture. Apply to dry hair, cover with a plastic cap for the recommended duration (usually 10 minutes), then rinse and comb with a fine‑toothed nit comb.
If resistance or intolerance is suspected, prescription options include:
- 1 % malathion lotion, applied for 8–12 hours before washing.
- 5 % benzyl alcohol lotion, left on the scalp for 10 minutes.
- 0.5 % ivermectin lotion, applied for 10 minutes.
Each prescription requires a repeat application 7–10 days after the initial treatment to eliminate newly hatched nymphs.
Mechanical removal involves a metal or plastic nit comb used after every treatment session. Comb the hair in sections, wiping the comb on a white towel after each pass to detect viable lice.
Adjunctive steps reduce re‑infestation:
- Wash bedding, hats, scarves, and hair accessories in hot water (≥ 60 °C) or seal in a plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture.
- Instruct caregivers to avoid sharing combs, brushes, and headwear.
Monitoring continues for at least four weeks. Persistent live lice after two treatment cycles warrant specialist referral for alternative regimens or evaluation of secondary skin infection.