What to use to treat lice on a child's head at home? - briefly
Use an FDA‑approved pediculicide such as 1 % permethrin or a pyrethrin‑based shampoo, applied according to the label and followed by thorough combing with a fine‑tooth lice comb; repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate any newly hatched nits. A silicone‑based product containing dimethicone offers a non‑chemical alternative with similar efficacy when used in the same regimen.
What to use to treat lice on a child's head at home? - in detail
Effective home treatment for a child's head lice involves three stages: elimination of live insects, removal of nits, and prevention of re‑infestation.
A pediculicide shampoo or lotion containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin is the first line of defense. Apply according to the product label, leave on the scalp for the recommended time (usually 10 minutes), then rinse thoroughly.
If resistance to chemical agents is suspected, a dimethicone‑based lotion (15–30 % silicone oil) provides a physical mechanism that suffocates lice without neurotoxic effects. Apply to dry hair, cover with a shower cap for 8–12 hours, then wash out.
Manual removal of nits follows chemical treatment. Use a fine‑toothed nit comb on wet, conditioned hair. Section the hair, comb from scalp outward, and wipe the comb after each pass. Repeat the combing process every 2–3 days for two weeks to capture newly hatched nits.
Supportive measures reduce the risk of recurrence:
- Wash all bedding, pillowcases, and clothing used within the previous 48 hours in water ≥ 50 °C; tumble‑dry on high heat.
- Seal items that cannot be laundered (toys, brushes) in a sealed plastic bag for at least two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture to remove fallen lice and nits.
- Avoid sharing hats, hair accessories, or combs among children.
Alternative non‑chemical options include:
- Wet combing – repeated combing with a nit comb on wet hair, performed daily for a week.
- Essential‑oil mixtures – formulations containing 1 % tea‑tree oil or 0.5 % lavender oil, applied after a carrier oil; note limited regulatory approval and potential skin sensitivity.
Monitoring after treatment is essential. Examine the scalp 7 days post‑application; the presence of live lice indicates treatment failure and warrants a second application of the same or an alternative pediculicide.
For children with scalp irritation, eczema, or allergy to insecticides, consult a healthcare professional before initiating any regimen.