What will help if a child has lice? - briefly
Apply an FDA‑approved pediculicide (e.g., 1 % permethrin) to dry hair, leave for the recommended time, then remove nits with a fine‑tooth comb and repeat in 7–10 days; wash all bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water or seal them for two weeks.
What will help if a child has lice? - in detail
When a child is found to have head lice, immediate action reduces spread and eases discomfort.
First, confirm the infestation by examining the scalp and hair under good lighting. Use a fine‑toothed comb to separate sections; live insects or viable nits attached at an angle of 45° to the hair shaft confirm the problem.
Next, choose an appropriate treatment:
- Over‑the‑counter insecticidal shampoos or lotions containing 1% permethrin or 0.5% pyrethrin. Apply according to the product label, leave for the recommended time, then rinse.
- Prescription options such as 0.5% malathion, 0.05% ivermectin, or oral spinosad for resistant cases. These require a physician’s authorization.
- Mechanical removal using a nit comb after a conditioner or oil treatment. Comb each section from scalp to tip, rinsing the comb frequently. Repeat every 2–3 days for two weeks.
Supportive measures alleviate itching and prevent secondary infection:
- Apply a soothing lotion containing calamine or a mild antihistamine cream.
- Keep nails trimmed to discourage scratching.
- Wash clothing, bedding, and hats in hot water (≥130 °F) and dry on high heat; items that cannot be laundered may be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks.
Environmental control limits re‑infestation:
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and vehicle seats.
- Avoid sharing combs, brushes, hats, or headphones.
- Inform the school or childcare facility so they can implement their lice‑management protocol.
Follow‑up is essential. Re‑examine the child 7–10 days after treatment; if live lice persist, repeat the chosen therapy or switch to a different agent. Persistent nits without live insects do not require additional treatment but should be removed to eliminate the visual stigma.
By combining chemical or mechanical treatment, thorough cleaning, and vigilant monitoring, children recover quickly and the cycle of transmission is broken.