What to do if lice and nits appear? - briefly
Inspect the scalp, apply an FDA‑approved lice treatment, then comb out remaining nits with a fine‑toothed comb; wash clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water and vacuum the home to prevent reinfestation. Repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate any newly hatched lice.
What to do if lice and nits appear? - in detail
When live lice or their eggs are found on a person’s scalp, immediate action prevents further spread and reduces discomfort.
First, confirm the infestation. Use a fine‑toothed comb on wet, conditioned hair, section by section, and inspect the comb for live insects or oval, yellowish nits attached close to the scalp.
Next, choose a treatment method. Options include:
- Over‑the‑counter pediculicides: Permethrin 1% lotion or pyrethrin‑based shampoos applied according to the package directions, usually left on for 10 minutes before rinsing.
- Prescription medications: Malathion 0.5% lotion, ivermectin oral tablets, or benzyl alcohol lotion for resistant cases; these require a doctor’s prescription.
- Mechanical removal: Wet‑comb technique with a fine‑toothed nit comb, repeated every 2–3 days for two weeks, eliminates both lice and nits without chemicals.
After applying any chemical product, repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to kill newly hatched lice that survived the first dose.
Environmental control is essential. Wash all bedding, towels, and clothing used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks or placed in a freezer at –4 °F for 24 hours. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats to remove stray insects.
Finally, monitor the situation. Continue weekly comb checks for at least four weeks. If live insects persist after two treatment cycles, consult a healthcare professional for alternative regimens or combination therapy.
Consistent application of these steps eradicates the problem and minimizes the risk of re‑infestation.