What to do if you discover lice on your head?

What to do if you discover lice on your head? - briefly

Apply a lice‑killing treatment such as a permethrin or pyrethrin shampoo, then comb the hair thoroughly with a fine‑toothed nit comb to remove nits, repeating the process after 7‑10 days. Wash all bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water and vacuum the environment to prevent re‑infestation.

What to do if you discover lice on your head? - in detail

Finding head lice requires immediate, systematic action. First, confirm the infestation by examining the scalp and hair under good lighting. Look for live insects about the size of a sesame seed, their translucent eggs (nits) attached close to the scalp, or intense itching.

1. Separate the affected person

   • Keep the individual away from close contact with others for at least 24 hours.
   • Notify anyone who may have shared hats, hair accessories, or bedding.

2. Select an appropriate treatment

   • Over‑the‑counter pediculicides containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin are first‑line options. Follow the package instructions precisely, applying the product to dry hair, leaving it for the recommended time, then rinsing.
   • Prescription options such as 0.5 % malathion or oral ivermectin are reserved for resistant cases or when OTC products fail. A medical professional must prescribe these.
   • Non‑chemical methods include a fine‑toothed nit comb used on wet, conditioned hair. Comb from scalp to ends, cleaning the comb after each pass. Repeat every 2–3 days for two weeks.

3. Execute thorough nit removal

   • After chemical treatment, comb the hair systematically. Divide hair into sections, pull each section taut, and run the comb from the scalp outward.
   • Dispose of each combed-out nits by soaking them in alcohol or flushing them down the toilet; do not reuse them.

4. Sanitize personal items and environment

   • Wash clothing, towels, and bed linens used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
   • Seal non‑washable items (e.g., hats, stuffed toys) in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks, the lifespan of a louse without a host.
   • Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats to remove stray insects.

5. Monitor and repeat

   • Inspect the scalp and hair daily for the next two weeks. If live lice reappear, repeat the treatment after a 7‑day interval, as some eggs may hatch after the first application.
   • Persistent infestation after two treatment cycles warrants professional medical assessment.

6. Prevent future occurrences

   • Encourage regular head checks, especially in school‑age children.
   • Avoid sharing personal hair items.
   • Maintain clean, dry hair; excessive oil or heavy styling products can conceal nits.

By following these steps—verification, immediate isolation, appropriate medication or mechanical removal, environmental decontamination, and diligent follow‑up—head lice can be eradicated efficiently and the risk of recurrence minimized.