What to do if my daughter has lice?

What to do if my daughter has lice? - briefly

Use an FDA‑approved lice treatment (shampoo, lotion, or mousse) according to the directions, then comb the hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb to remove nits; wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water and vacuum the home to prevent re‑infestation.

What to do if my daughter has lice? - in detail

If a child is found with head‑lice, begin with a thorough inspection. Use a fine‑toothed comb on damp hair, section by section, to confirm the presence of live insects and nits attached to the hair shaft. Once confirmed, follow these steps:

1. Select an appropriate treatment

   • Over‑the‑counter pediculicides containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin are first‑line options.
   • For resistance or allergy concerns, consider a prescription lotion with 0.5 % malathion or 0.05 % ivermectin.
   • Non‑chemical alternatives include dimethicone‑based products or a hot‑water wash followed by a fine‑tooth comb.

2. Apply the product correctly

   • Follow the label’s timing precisely; usually a 10‑minute exposure for permethrin, longer for malathion.
   • Ensure the scalp and all hair are saturated, especially behind the ears and at the nape.
   • Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water after the recommended period.

3. Comb out nits

   • While the hair is still damp, run a nit comb from scalp to tips, cleaning the comb after each pass.
   • Repeat the combing process for at least three consecutive days to capture any newly hatched lice.

4. Repeat treatment

   • Most products require a second application 7–10 days after the first to eradicate any survivors.
   • Do not exceed the recommended number of repeats without medical advice.

5. Clean personal items and environment

   • Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F/54 °C) and dry on high heat.
   • Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
   • Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
   • Avoid fumigating the home; lice cannot survive off the scalp for more than 24 hours.

6. Prevent reinfestation

   • Advise the child to avoid sharing hats, hair accessories, or pillows.
   • Inform teachers and caregivers so they can conduct checks and apply preventive measures.
   • Schedule a follow‑up inspection 2 weeks later to confirm clearance.

7. Seek professional help if needed

   • Persistent infestation after two complete treatment cycles warrants a visit to a healthcare provider.
   • Laboratory confirmation may be required to rule out resistant strains.
   • Prescription oral ivermectin is an option for severe or refractory cases, administered under medical supervision.

By adhering to these actions—accurate diagnosis, correct product use, diligent nit removal, thorough environmental cleaning, and ongoing monitoring—the infestation can be eliminated efficiently and the risk of recurrence minimized.