What should you do if there are lice and nits on the head?

What should you do if there are lice and nits on the head? - briefly

Apply an FDA‑approved lice treatment, then comb the hair thoroughly with a fine‑toothed nit comb to remove all eggs, wash bedding and clothing in hot water, and repeat the treatment in 7–10 days to eradicate any newly hatched insects.

What should you do if there are lice and nits on the head? - in detail

Detect the infestation by examining the scalp and hair under bright light. Use a fine-toothed comb to separate strands; live insects appear as gray‑brown specks, while eggs (nits) cling tightly to the shaft within a millimeter of the scalp.

1. Choose an approved pediculicide.

   • Over‑the‑counter shampoos or lotions containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin are effective for most cases.
   • Prescription products such as 0.5 % malathion, 0.025 % ivermectin, or benzyl alcohol lotion are alternatives for resistant infestations.
     Apply according to the label: wet the hair, apply the product, leave it for the specified time, then rinse thoroughly. Do not reuse the same container for other family members.

2. Remove nits mechanically.

   • After chemical treatment, comb the hair with a fine nit‑comb while the hair is still damp.
   • Start at the scalp, pull the comb through each section, wiping the teeth with a disposable tissue after each pass.
   • Repeat the combing process at least twice daily for seven days to capture any newly hatched lice before they lay eggs.

3. Decontaminate personal items.

   • Wash 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 a sealed plastic bag for two weeks, the typical lifespan of a louse away from a host.
   • Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats to remove stray insects; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.

4. Monitor and repeat treatment.

   • Perform a thorough head inspection 7–10 days after the first application.
   • If live lice are observed, repeat the pediculicide once more, adhering to the maximum number of applications indicated on the product label.
   • Continue nit‑combing for an additional week to ensure complete eradication.

5. Prevent reinfestation.

   • Advise all close contacts to examine their heads and treat if necessary.
   • Encourage regular hair checks, especially in settings where head‑to‑head contact is common.
   • Avoid sharing combs, hats, hair accessories, or pillows.

Following these steps methodically eliminates both active insects and their eggs, restores a lice‑free environment, and reduces the likelihood of recurrence.