What to do if there are lice eggs in the head? - briefly
Apply a fine-toothed nit comb to wet, conditioned hair after treating with an approved pediculicide, combing daily for at least a week and repeating the treatment after 7–10 days. Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water and vacuum the environment to eliminate any remaining eggs.
What to do if there are lice eggs in the head? - in detail
Lice nits attached to hair shafts require immediate, systematic removal to prevent infestation spread. Begin by confirming the presence of eggs: they appear as tiny, oval, tan‑white bodies firmly glued close to the scalp, often near the base of hair strands.
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Gather tools – fine‑toothed nit comb, disposable gloves, white towel, hair clips, and a suitable treatment (e.g., dimethicone‑based lotion or a prescription pediculicide). Prepare a well‑lit area and lay the towel on a flat surface.
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Apply treatment – follow the product label precisely: apply to dry or damp hair, saturating the scalp and strands. Allow the recommended dwell time, typically 10–15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Do not use excessive heat or harsh chemicals that could damage hair or skin.
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Comb out nits – while hair is still damp, divide it into sections with clips. Starting at the scalp, run the nit comb through each section from root to tip, wiping the teeth on a white paper after each pass to detect captured eggs. Repeat the process for every section; multiple passes are essential because nits can be missed on the first try.
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Repeat the cycle – most products require a second application 7–10 days after the first to eliminate newly hatched lice. Perform the combing routine again after the second treatment.
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Sanitize personal items – place combs, brushes, and hair accessories in hot, soapy water for at least 10 minutes. Seal non‑washable items (hats, pillowcases, bedding) in airtight bags for 48 hours, or machine‑wash them on high heat (≥60 °C) and tumble‑dry.
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Inspect household members – conduct a thorough head check on all close contacts. If any nits are found, repeat steps 2–4 for those individuals.
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Monitor and prevent recurrence – schedule weekly inspections for three weeks after treatment. Encourage avoidance of head‑to‑head contact, sharing of personal items, and regular cleaning of clothing and bedding.
By adhering to this protocol—accurate identification, appropriate medication, meticulous combing, and comprehensive environmental decontamination—head lice eggs can be eliminated efficiently, reducing the risk of further infestation.