What to do if lice appear in hair?

What to do if lice appear in hair? - briefly

Treat the infestation promptly with a licensed pediculicide, follow the product’s directions, then use a fine-toothed lice comb to remove nits and repeat the process after 7–10 days to prevent re‑infestation.

What to do if lice appear in hair? - in detail

If head‑lice are discovered, begin with a thorough visual inspection. Separate the affected individual’s hair into small sections, using a fine‑toothed lice comb on wet strands. Locate live insects and their eggs (nits) attached close to the scalp.

1. Immediate treatment

   • Apply an approved pediculicide (e.g., permethrin 1 % or pyrethrin‑based shampoo) according to the product label.
   • Leave the solution on the scalp for the specified duration, then rinse thoroughly.
   • Repeat the application after 7–10 days to eliminate any newly hatched lice that survived the first dose.

2. Mechanical removal

   • After chemical treatment, comb the hair with a fine lice comb at least twice daily for one week.
   • Dispose of each combed section by wiping the comb with a damp cloth or soaking it in alcohol.

3. Environmental decontamination

   • Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat.
   • Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks, the period needed for lice to die without a host.
   • Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.

4. Alternative or adjunct therapies

   • Dimethicone‑based lotions create a physical barrier that suffocates lice; apply as directed and leave on for several hours.
   • Essential‑oil mixtures (e.g., tea tree, lavender) lack consistent clinical evidence and should not replace approved treatments.

5. Follow‑up inspection

   • Conduct a second visual check 12–24 hours after the repeat treatment.
   • If live lice persist, consult a healthcare professional for prescription‑strength options such as malathion or ivermectin.

6. Prevention of reinfestation

   • Advise regular use of a lice‑comb at least once a week for all household members during an outbreak.
   • Encourage avoidance of sharing hats, hair accessories, or personal grooming tools.
   • Educate children about not head‑butting or close scalp contact during play.

By systematically applying chemical treatment, mechanical removal, environmental cleaning, and vigilant monitoring, the infestation can be eradicated and the risk of recurrence minimized.