Head Lice Treatment Recommendations
If your child has head lice, don't panic — they are common, treatable, and do not mean your home or child is "dirty." The key is to act promptly and thoroughly to prevent reinfestation.
1
Check and Treat EVERYONE in the Household
- •If one person has lice, assume others do too. Everyone in the home — children and adults — should be checked and treated at the same time.
- •Untreated carriers, even without symptoms, can cause lice to return.
2
COMBING is the Most Important Step
- •No matter which product you use, removing lice and nits with a fine-toothed comb is the single most effective way to get rid of them.
- •Comb every 2–3 days for at least 2 weeks after treatment.
- •Work in small sections from scalp to hair ends. Wet hair and use conditioner to make combing easier.
3
Choose a Treatment Method
A. Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications
- •First-line options: Permethrin 1% lotion (Nix®) or Pyrethrin-based shampoos (Rid®).
- •Follow instructions exactly. Repeat in 7–10 days to kill any newly hatched lice.
- •Avoid conditioner before applying the treatment, as it can make the medicine less effective.
B. Cetaphil Method (Non-Toxic Option)
- •Apply Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser generously to dry hair, saturating from scalp to tips.
- •Comb out excess cleanser.
- •Blow-dry hair completely (this "shrink-wraps" lice and nits, suffocating them).
- •Repeat once a week for 3 weeks.
- •Continue nit combing between treatments.
4
Prevent Spread and Reinfestation
- •Wash pillowcases, hats, bedding, and clothing worn in the last 48 hours in hot water (≥130°F) and dry on high heat.
- •Soak combs and hair accessories in hot water for 10 minutes.
- •Items that can't be washed can be sealed in a plastic bag for 2 weeks.
- •Tell close contacts (friends, school, daycare) so they can check and treat as needed.
5
When to Call Our Office
- If lice persist after two full treatments.
- If your child is under 2 years old.
- If there is scalp infection (redness, swelling, or pus).
Remember: Lice can be stubborn, but with complete household treatment and consistent combing, you can get rid of them for good.
For additional guidance, please contact our office at
(231) 638-4120