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How to Control Head Lice

According to the Mayo Clinic, head lice is a common affliction among school-aged children, second only to the common cold. Head lice are parasites that feed on the blood of the scalp and are easily transmitted through personal contact or through contact with items the infected person has used on the head. Contrary to popular belief, having head lice does not indicate improper hygiene among the afflicted persons.

Things You'll Need

  • Medicated shampoo or lotion
  • Fine tooth comb
  • Vacuum
  • Plastic bags with seals
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Instructions

  1. Control Head Lice

    • 1

      Use an over-the-counter medication. Shampoos that treat head lice are available in major retailers and drug stores. Look for a shampoo that contains pyrethrin or permethrin. Follow the directions on the bottle for maximum effectiveness. Multiple treatments may be necessary to eliminate the problem. According to the Mayo Clinic, some forms of head lice have become resistant to the over-the-counter treatments.

    • 2

      Request a prescription shampoo or lotion from your doctor. The prescription treatments have different ingredients than their over-the counter counterparts and may work better against certain forms of head lice that are resistant to pyrethrin and permethrin. Use the prescription shampoo or lotion according to the directions of the doctor or pharmacist.

    • 3

      Use a fine tooth comb to brush through wet hair. Separate the hair into small sections. Beginning at the scalp, brush through the wet hair. Be thorough in combing each section to remove head lice from the scalp and the hair. Due to the ingredients in both over-the-counter and prescriptions regiments, this is the method preferred by doctors for children under two years of age.

    • 4

      Clean your home and all personal belongings to prevent a recurrent infection. Wash any items that can be washed in hot water. If the item cannot be washed, seal it in a plastic bag for 72 to 96 hours. This will kill the lice and prevent the lice eggs from progression. Thoroughly wipe down all surfaces and vacuum carpets, rugs and upholstery. If the infected person has been in the car, vacuum all surfaces of the car as well.

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