How Do You Get Rid Of Scabies In Your Hair?
Killing scabies mites in your hair requires a multi-pronged approach using prescription medications like permethrin cream or ivermectin, meticulous hygiene practices, and thorough environmental decontamination to prevent re-infestation.
Understanding Scabies and Its Occurrence in Hair
Scabies is a highly contagious skin infestation caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. While scabies most commonly affects areas like the hands, wrists, elbows, and feet, it can infest the scalp and hair, particularly in individuals with compromised immune systems, infants, and those with poor hygiene. Recognizing the signs and symptoms is the first step in how do you get rid of scabies in your hair?
Symptoms of Scalp Scabies
Scalp scabies presents with symptoms similar to scabies on other parts of the body, but with a focus on the scalp:
- Intense itching, especially at night.
- Tiny, raised bumps or blisters on the scalp.
- Scalp redness and inflammation.
- Possible secondary bacterial infections due to scratching.
- Visible mite burrows, though these can be difficult to see in the scalp.
Treatment: A Multi-Faceted Approach
Successfully tackling scabies in the hair involves a comprehensive strategy:
- Prescription Medication: Topical permethrin cream (5%) is the most common treatment. It should be applied to the entire body, including the scalp and hair, and left on for 8-14 hours before rinsing off. Oral ivermectin may be prescribed, especially for crusted scabies or when topical treatments fail.
- Hygiene: Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (at least 130°F) and dry them on high heat. Items that cannot be washed should be dry-cleaned or sealed in a plastic bag for at least 72 hours (some sources say longer, up to several weeks) to kill the mites.
- Environmental Decontamination: Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture thoroughly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Permethrin Cream to Hair
Applying permethrin to the hair requires care to ensure complete coverage:
- Shampoo and Dry: Wash your hair with a gentle shampoo and dry it thoroughly.
- Apply Permethrin: Apply a generous amount of permethrin cream to the scalp, working it through the hair from root to tip. Ensure every part of the scalp is covered.
- Leave-On Time: Leave the cream on for the duration recommended by your doctor (usually 8-14 hours).
- Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the cream out completely with water.
- Repeat if Necessary: Your doctor may recommend repeating the treatment after 7-14 days to kill any newly hatched mites.
Important Considerations During Treatment
- Treat Everyone: All close contacts (family members, partners) should be treated simultaneously, even if they don’t have symptoms.
- Itch Relief: Antihistamines can help relieve itching.
- Secondary Infections: If secondary bacterial infections develop due to scratching, antibiotics may be necessary.
- Crusted Scabies: This severe form of scabies requires more aggressive treatment, often involving a combination of topical and oral medications.
- Follow-Up: Schedule a follow-up appointment with your doctor to ensure the treatment was successful.
- Avoid Sharing: Do not share personal items like combs, brushes, hats, or towels with others.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Incomplete Coverage: Failing to apply permethrin cream thoroughly to the entire scalp and hair.
- Insufficient Treatment Time: Not leaving the cream on for the recommended duration.
- Ignoring Environmental Decontamination: Neglecting to wash clothing, bedding, and vacuum.
- Treating Only the Affected Individual: Failing to treat all close contacts.
- Prematurely Stopping Treatment: Stopping treatment before the scabies mites are completely eradicated.
Treatment Options Comparison
| Treatment | Method of Delivery | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Permethrin Cream | Topical | Effective for most cases; readily available | Requires thorough application; potential for skin irritation |
| Ivermectin | Oral | Easier to administer; effective for crusted scabies and difficult cases | Not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women; potential side effects |
| Lindane Lotion | Topical | (Historically used) | Not recommended as first-line treatment due to potential neurotoxicity; more side effects |
How do you get rid of scabies in your hair? Ultimately relies on adherence to prescribed medications and preventative measures.
FAQs about Treating Scabies in Hair
Why is it so hard to get rid of scabies?
Scabies is difficult to eradicate because the mites burrow into the skin, making them relatively protected from topical treatments. Furthermore, the mites are highly contagious, and re-infestation is common if environmental decontamination and treatment of close contacts are not thorough. Consistent and comprehensive treatment is crucial.
How long does it take for scabies to go away after treatment?
Itching may persist for up to several weeks after treatment, even if the mites are dead. This is due to an allergic reaction to the dead mites and their feces. If new burrows appear or the itching worsens, the treatment may have failed, and a second course of medication may be necessary.
Can I use over-the-counter treatments for scabies?
No, over-the-counter treatments are not effective for treating scabies. Prescription medications like permethrin cream and ivermectin are required to kill the mites. Using unproven remedies can delay proper treatment and worsen the infestation.
Is it possible to have scabies only in my hair?
While scabies typically affects areas like the hands and wrists, it can be localized to the scalp, especially in certain populations. However, it is crucial to examine the entire body for signs of scabies to ensure complete treatment.
What do scabies burrows look like in the hair?
Scabies burrows are difficult to see in the hair, as they are tiny, thread-like lines or slightly raised areas on the skin. They are more likely to be visible on the scalp after the hair is parted. A dermatologist can use a dermatoscope to better visualize burrows.
Can I spread scabies by touching my hair?
Yes, scabies is spread through direct skin-to-skin contact. Touching the hair of someone with scalp scabies and then touching another person’s skin can potentially transmit the mites. Sharing combs, brushes, and hats can also spread the infestation.
What happens if scabies is left untreated?
Untreated scabies can lead to persistent itching, secondary bacterial infections, and a more severe form of the infestation called crusted scabies, which is highly contagious and difficult to treat. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential.
Can pets get scabies and transmit it to humans?
The scabies mites that affect humans are different from those that affect animals. While pets can get their own form of mange caused by mites, these mites do not typically survive on humans.
How long can scabies mites live on surfaces?
Scabies mites can survive off the human body for 24 to 36 hours under normal conditions. This highlights the importance of washing clothing and bedding in hot water and vacuuming thoroughly.
What should I do if my itching persists after treatment?
If itching persists after treatment, consult your doctor. They may recommend antihistamines or topical corticosteroids to relieve the itching. They will also assess whether a second course of scabicide is necessary.
How can I prevent scabies from coming back?
Preventing re-infestation involves treating all close contacts, thoroughly cleaning the environment, and avoiding close skin-to-skin contact with individuals who may have scabies. Good hygiene practices are essential.
Are there any natural remedies that can help with scabies in the hair?
While some natural remedies, such as tea tree oil, are thought to have anti-mite properties, there is limited scientific evidence to support their effectiveness in treating scabies. Prescription medications are the gold standard for scabies treatment. Always consult with a doctor before trying any natural remedies, especially on the scalp. And remember, how do you get rid of scabies in your hair? is best answered by medical professionals.