What to do and how to treat lice? - briefly
Apply a pediculicide shampoo or lotion (e.g., permethrin or dimethicone) according to the label, then remove remaining nits with a fine‑toothed comb and repeat the treatment after 7–10 days; wash clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water or dry them on high heat. Maintain regular checks for two weeks to ensure complete eradication.
What to do and how to treat lice? - in detail
Lice infestations require swift identification and systematic action. Begin by confirming the presence of live insects or viable eggs (nits) attached to hair shafts near the scalp. Use a fine-toothed comb on wet hair, section by section, to locate adult lice and nits.
Once confirmed, implement the following protocol:
- Topical treatment – Apply an approved pediculicide according to package instructions. Permethrin 1% lotion, pyrethrin‑based sprays, or dimethicone formulations are common first‑line options. For resistant cases, seek a prescription such as ivermectin or malathion.
- Application timing – Leave the product on the scalp for the recommended duration, typically 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
- Nit removal – After treatment, comb hair with a nit‑comb while still damp. Perform this process every 2–3 days for two weeks to eliminate newly hatched lice.
- Environmental decontamination – Wash all worn clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a plastic bag for at least 48 hours, as lice cannot survive beyond this period without a host. Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture to capture stray nits.
- Re‑evaluation – Inspect the scalp 7 days post‑treatment. If live lice persist, repeat the entire regimen with a different active ingredient to avoid resistance.
Alternative approaches include:
- Silicone‑based lotions (e.g., dimethicone) that suffocate lice without neurotoxic chemicals.
- Essential‑oil mixtures (tea tree, neem, or lavender) used in conjunction with a carrier oil; these have limited evidence and should not replace FDA‑approved products.
Preventive measures:
- Advise regular head‑checking in schools or group settings.
- Encourage avoidance of sharing combs, hats, or headphones.
- Maintain short hair where practical, as longer strands provide more surface area for attachment.
Document treatment dates, product names, and any adverse reactions. Prompt, methodical execution of these steps eliminates the infestation and reduces the likelihood of recurrence.