Is head lice safe in children?

Head lice are tiny insects that live on the scalp and feed there. They commonly cause itching, a crawling sensation, or scratch marks, although a child may have few symptoms. Nits are eggs attached firmly to hairs near the scalp; flakes often brush away more easily. Head lice do not mean a child is unclean, and they are mainly spread through close head-to-head contact.

The main concern is repeated scratching, which can break the skin and allow a secondary infection. Lice can also pass between household or school contacts, so checking close contacts and following the treatment instructions matters.

Confirm live lice when possible before applying a treatment. Use a product labelled for the child’s age and follow its directions exactly; do not combine treatments or repeat applications early unless a clinician or product instructions say to do so. A fine-toothed comb on wet, conditioned hair can help remove lice and nits. Wash or isolate recently used bedding, hats, and hair items as directed locally, and avoid sharing combs or brushes.

Ask a clinician or pharmacist for advice if the child is very young, has eczema or broken skin, or treatment has failed. Seek prompt care for spreading redness, warmth, pus, fever, painful sores, or severe swelling. Get urgent help for breathing difficulty, facial swelling, or a serious rash after a lice product.

Ask how to confirm live lice, which treatment fits the child’s age and health, when it should be repeated, and how to manage persistent itching. Ask whether siblings or other close contacts need examination.