What are head lice?
Parasitic insects that infest human scalp hair and feed on blood.
What do head lice distribute in the hair?
Eggs (nits).
What is wet combing used for in head lice infestation?
Systematic combing of wet hair with a detection comb to remove lice.
How many wet combing sessions are needed and on which days?
Four sessions on days 1, 5, 9, and 13.
How long does each wet combing session take?
10–30 minutes depending on hair length and texture.
When can head lice treatment via wet combing be stopped?
If the fifth detection session on day 17 finds no lice.
Which dimeticone products can be used for head lice?
4% gel (Hedrin), 92% spray (NYDA), and >95% lotion (Linicin).
How long should dimeticone products be applied, and when should they be repeated?
Apply for at least 8 hours or overnight; repeat after 7 days.
Which product contains isopropyl myristate and cyclomethicone?
Full Marks Solution.
How is Full Marks Solution used?
Apply for 10 minutes and repeat after 7 days.
Which product contains isopropyl myristate and isopropyl alcohol?
Vamousse.
How is Vamousse used?
Apply for 15 minutes and repeat if needed.
What is the only licensed chemical insecticide for head lice?
Malathion 0.5% aqueous liquid (Debac-M).
How long should malathion be applied for, and when should it be repeated?
Apply for 12 hours; repeat after 7 days.
What are the first-line treatments for pregnant or breastfeeding women with head lice?
Wet combing or dimeticone 4% lotion.
What are preferred treatments in children aged 6 months to 2 years?
Wet combing or dimeticone 4% lotion.
What treatment is recommended for people with asthma or eczema?
Wet combing or dimeticone 4% lotion.
Why is malathion avoided in certain groups?
Because it contains alcohol.
What is the MHRA warning for head lice treatments containing physical insecticides?
Risk of serious burns if treated hair is exposed to open flames or ignition sources.
