What should you know about head lice products?

Products may contain an insect-killing medicine or a substance that coats and suffocates lice. They are designed for the scalp and hair, not for use on eyebrows, eyelashes, or broken skin. An itchy scalp can have other causes, so finding live crawling lice or viable eggs close to the scalp helps confirm the problem.

Read the label before applying anything and follow its contact time, amount, and age restrictions. Keep the product away from the eyes and mouth, and wash it off as directed. Use a fine-toothed lice comb on damp, conditioned hair to remove lice and nits. Check close household contacts and avoid sharing combs, hats, pillows, or towels until treatment is underway. Do not combine different lice medicines unless a clinician advises it.

Arrange a GP Consultation if live lice remain after correct use, the scalp becomes very sore or crusted, or you are unsure whether the product is suitable for a child, pregnancy, or sensitive skin. Seek prompt medical advice for facial swelling, breathing trouble, or a severe reaction after application.

Ask which product fits the person's age and scalp condition, whether a repeat application is needed, and how to tell an empty nit case from a live infestation.