How can you quickly and effectively eliminate lice?

Understanding Lice Infestations

What are Lice?

Lice are obligate ectoparasites that live on the skin, hair, or feathers of their hosts. Three species commonly affect humans: head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis), body lice (Pediculus humanus corporis), and pubic lice (Pthirus pubis). Each species is adapted to a specific niche, but all feed on blood several times a day.

Biology

Adult size: 2–4 mm, wing‑less, flattened body.
Mouthparts: pierce skin to draw blood.
Reproduction: females lay 6–10 eggs (nits) per day, attaching them to hair shafts near the scalp.
Development: egg → nymph (three molts) → adult; entire cycle completes in 7–10 days under optimal temperature (30 °C) and humidity.

Transmission

Direct head‑to‑head contact spreads head lice.
Body lice transfer via contaminated clothing or bedding.
Pubic lice spread primarily through sexual contact or shared fomites.

Clinical signs

Itching caused by allergic reaction to saliva.
Visible nits attached to hair close to the scalp.
In heavy infestations, small red lesions or secondary infection may appear.

Detection

Wet‑combing with a fine‑toothed comb reveals live lice and nits.
Visual inspection of the scalp and hairline, focusing on the occipital region and behind ears, identifies infestations early.

Common Types of Head Lice

Understanding the specific lice species present on a scalp guides the choice of treatment and improves speed of eradication. Three lice types most frequently encountered on human heads are:

Pediculus humanus capitis – the true head louse; lives close to the scalp, lays eggs (nits) on hair shafts, and feeds several times daily.
Pediculus humanus corporis – the body louse; primarily infests clothing but can migrate to the scalp, especially in crowded or unhygienic conditions.
Pthirus pubis – commonly called the crab louse; broader body, prefers coarse hair but may colonize head hair during an outbreak.

Each species exhibits distinct morphology and behavior that affect how quickly an infestation spreads and which chemical or mechanical removal methods are most effective. Recognizing these differences enables targeted, rapid control measures.

How Lice Spread

Lice propagate primarily through direct head-to-head contact, which transfers live insects and their eggs from one person to another within seconds. Shared personal items—combs, brushes, hats, helmets, headphones, and scarves—can also serve as vectors when they retain viable nits or crawling lice. Crowded environments such as schools, daycare centers, and sports teams increase the likelihood of accidental contact, accelerating the spread among groups.

Additional transmission pathways include:

Contact with infested bedding, pillows, or upholstered furniture that has not been laundered recently.
Use of contaminated clothing or towels that have been in close proximity to an infested head.
Transmission through hair extensions, wigs, or hairpieces that have not been properly cleaned.

Understanding these mechanisms is essential for implementing swift and effective lice eradication strategies, as interrupting the primary routes of transmission reduces reinfestation risk and supports successful treatment outcomes.

Effective Lice Treatment Methods

Over-the-Counter Solutions

Pyrethrin-Based Products

Pyrethrin, a natural insecticide extracted from chrysanthemum flowers, is a primary component of many over‑the‑counter lice treatments. Its rapid neurotoxic action paralyzes lice within minutes, allowing immediate removal of live insects and their eggs.

Effective use of pyrethrin‑based products requires strict adherence to dosage and exposure time. Apply the prescribed amount to dry hair, ensuring complete coverage from scalp to tips. Leave the formulation on for the exact period indicated on the label—typically 10 minutes—then rinse thoroughly. Follow with a fine‑toothed lice comb to extract dead lice and nits. Repeat the procedure after 7–10 days to eliminate any newly hatched specimens.

Key considerations for optimal results:

Use only products that list pyrethrin as the active ingredient; avoid formulations that combine pyrethrin with other chemicals unless specifically recommended.
Verify that the user is not allergic to pyrethrins or related compounds; conduct a patch test 30 minutes before full application.
Do not apply to children under two years of age or to individuals with a history of seizures, as pyrethrins can lower the seizure threshold.
Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat to prevent reinfestation.
Store the product in a cool, dry place; exposure to heat degrades pyrethrin potency.

Resistance to pyrethrin can develop in lice populations exposed to sub‑therapeutic doses. To mitigate this risk, rotate treatments with a different class of pediculicides, such as dimethicone or ivermectin, according to professional guidance.

When applied correctly and combined with thorough mechanical removal, pyrethrin‑based treatments provide a fast, reliable method for eradicating head lice.

Permethrin-Based Products

Permethrin-based products represent the most widely used chemical option for rapid and reliable removal of head lice. The active ingredient, permethrin, is a synthetic pyrethroid that disrupts voltage‑gated sodium channels in the insect’s nervous system, leading to paralysis and death within minutes of contact.

Application requires thorough saturation of dry hair with the prescribed concentration, usually 1 % permethrin lotion or shampoo. The solution must remain on the scalp for the time specified on the label—typically 10 minutes—before rinsing. A second treatment, scheduled 7–10 days later, eliminates newly hatched nymphs that escaped the initial exposure.

Effectiveness studies report cure rates between 80 % and 95 % when instructions are followed precisely. Emerging resistance in some populations reduces success, making proper dosing and repeat treatment essential to maintain high eradication rates.

Regulatory agencies approve permethrin for individuals aged six months and older. Reported adverse effects are limited to mild scalp irritation; systemic toxicity is rare when used as directed. Contraindications include known hypersensitivity to pyrethroids.

Practical measures that support chemical treatment:

Use a fine‑toothed lice comb immediately after rinsing to remove dead insects and eggs.
Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water (≥ 130 °F) or seal them in airtight bags for two weeks.
Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture to capture stray lice.
Avoid sharing combs, hats, or hair accessories until the infestation is cleared.

When applied correctly and combined with these hygiene practices, permethrin-based formulations provide a fast and effective solution to head‑lice infestations.

Prescription Medications

Malathion Lotion

Malathion lotion is a synthetic organophosphate insecticide formulated for topical application to the scalp and hair. It acts by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase in lice, leading to paralysis and death within minutes. The product typically contains 0.5 % malathion, a concentration proven to overcome resistance observed with many pyrethrin‑based treatments.

Application guidelines:

Apply to dry hair, ensuring full coverage from roots to tips.
Leave the lotion on for 8–10 minutes; longer exposure does not increase efficacy and may raise irritation risk.
Rinse thoroughly with warm water; avoid shampooing for 24 hours to allow residual activity.
Repeat treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched nymphs.

Safety considerations:

Approved for individuals aged 6 months and older; infants under 6 months require physician supervision.
Common adverse effects include mild scalp irritation, itching, or redness; severe reactions are rare.
Pregnant or nursing women should consult a healthcare professional before use due to systemic absorption potential.

Effectiveness data indicate cure rates of 90 % or higher when instructions are followed precisely. Malathion remains a viable option when resistance to over‑the‑counter pediculicides compromises treatment outcomes. Combining proper mechanical removal (fine‑tooth combing) with the lotion enhances eradication speed and reduces the likelihood of re‑infestation.

Benzyl Alcohol Lotion

Benzyl alcohol lotion is a non‑prescription pediculicide that kills head‑lice eggs and nymphs through desiccation. The 5 % concentration penetrates the exoskeleton, causing rapid loss of moisture and death within 30 minutes. Because it does not contain neurotoxic agents, resistance development is uncommon.

Application involves saturating clean, dry hair with the lotion, covering the scalp for ten minutes, then rinsing thoroughly. Re‑treatment after seven days eliminates any newly hatched insects that survived the first exposure. The regimen can be completed in under an hour, making it suitable for urgent situations.

Key considerations:

Suitable for children aged six months and older; infants younger than six months require medical supervision.
Avoid use on irritated or broken skin; discontinue if severe irritation occurs.
No known drug interactions; safe for concurrent use of shampoos and conditioners after rinsing.
Storage at room temperature preserves potency for up to two years.

Clinical studies report over 90 % eradication rates after the two‑treatment protocol, confirming benzyl alcohol lotion as a fast and reliable option for lice control.

Non-Chemical Approaches

Wet Combing Method

The wet‑combing technique removes live lice and nits without chemicals, making it a rapid, reliable option for eradication.

A fine‑toothed metal or plastic comb, a spray bottle filled with lukewarm water, and a conditioner or detangling spray are required. A towel, a bowl of water for rinsing the comb, and disposable gloves improve hygiene.

Saturate hair completely with water and apply conditioner to loosen nits.
Starting at the scalp, run the comb through a small section of hair, pulling it straight from root to tip.
After each pass, rinse the comb in the water bowl, wipe away captured lice, and repeat until the section is clear.
Continue section by section until the entire head is combed.
Inspect the comb and hair for remaining insects; repeat the process if any are found.

Perform the procedure every 2–3 days for two weeks, then weekly for an additional two weeks to intercept newly hatched lice. Clean the comb after each use, launder bedding and clothing in hot water, and vacuum upholstered surfaces.

Clinical observations show that consistent wet combing eliminates infestations in 80–90 % of cases when combined with environmental decontamination. The method avoids allergic reactions, resistance issues, and exposure to pesticides, providing a safe, effective solution for swift lice control.

Essential Oils and Home Remedies

Essential oils offer a fast, chemical‑free approach to lice eradication. Studies indicate that oil components such as terpinen‑4‑ol (tea tree), linalool (lavender), menthol (peppermint), eucalyptol (eucalyptus), and eugenol (clove) disrupt the nervous system of lice, leading to rapid mortality. Concentrations of 5‑10 % in a carrier oil (coconut, olive, or jojoba) provide optimal efficacy without irritating scalp skin.

To apply, mix the chosen essential oil(s) with the carrier oil, saturate the hair from roots to tips, cover with a shower cap for 30 minutes, then comb through with a fine‑tooth lice comb. Repeat the process every 24 hours for three consecutive days to break the life cycle.

Additional home remedies complement oil treatment:

Wet combing: soak hair in warm water, apply conditioner, comb every 3 hours.
Vinegar rinse: 1 part apple cider vinegar to 2 parts water, rinse after oil treatment to loosen nits.
Olive oil or mayonnaise: coat hair, leave for 2 hours, then comb to suffocate insects.
Baking soda paste: mix with water, apply to scalp, leave 15 minutes, rinse; alkaline environment reduces lice viability.

Safety considerations include performing a patch test before full application, avoiding oils on children under two years, and refraining from ingestion. Consistent execution of the protocol eliminates active lice and prevents reinfestation within a week.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) possesses strong insecticidal properties that target head‑lice life stages. Its main active component, terpinen‑4‑ol, disrupts the nervous system of lice, leading to paralysis and death within minutes of contact.

Application methods that yield rapid results include:

Diluting 10 %–20 % tea tree oil in a carrier such as olive oil or a mild shampoo, then massaging the mixture into the scalp and hair.
Leaving the solution on for 10–15 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
Repeating the treatment after 48 hours to eliminate newly hatched nymphs, as the oil does not affect eggs.

Safety considerations:

Perform a patch test on a small skin area 24 hours before full application to detect possible allergic reactions.
Avoid use on children under two years of age and on individuals with known sensitivity to essential oils.
Do not apply undiluted oil directly to the scalp; concentration above 20 % may cause irritation.

Evidence from clinical studies indicates that tea tree oil, when used at appropriate concentrations, reduces live lice counts by up to 90 % after a single session, with a second session eliminating residual infestations. Combining tea tree oil with a conventional pediculicide can enhance overall efficacy, especially in resistant populations.

In summary, tea tree oil offers a fast‑acting, topical option for lice control when applied correctly, observed for safety, and followed by a second treatment to ensure complete eradication.

Anise Oil

Anise oil, extracted from Pimpinella anisum seeds, possesses insecticidal and repellent properties that target head‑lice and their eggs. The oil’s primary active compounds—anethole, estragole, and linalool—disrupt the nervous system of lice, leading to rapid immobilization and death, while also impairing egg viability.

Application requires careful preparation to maximize efficacy and minimize scalp irritation. Follow these steps:

Dilute anise oil with a carrier such as coconut or jojoba oil at a ratio of 1 part essential oil to 9 parts carrier.
Apply the mixture to dry hair, ensuring thorough coverage from scalp to tips.
Massage gently for 2–3 minutes to improve penetration.
Cover hair with a plastic cap and leave the treatment in place for 30 minutes.
Rinse with lukewarm water, then comb with a fine‑toothed lice comb to remove dead insects and nits.
Repeat the procedure after 7 days to eliminate any newly hatched lice.

Safety considerations include performing a patch test 24 hours before full application to detect possible allergic reactions. Avoid use on infants under 3 months, on broken skin, or in individuals with known sensitivity to anise or related plants. Do not combine with heat‑based styling tools during treatment, as elevated temperatures may increase skin absorption and irritation.

Clinical studies and in‑vitro trials report a 70–85 % mortality rate for lice exposed to anise oil concentrations of 5–10 %. While not a standalone cure for severe infestations, the oil serves as a fast‑acting adjunct to mechanical removal methods, offering a natural alternative to synthetic pediculicides.

Ylang-Ylang Oil

Ylang‑ylang essential oil possesses insecticidal properties that can assist in rapid lice removal. Its high concentration of linalool and geranyl acetate disrupts the nervous system of head‑lice, leading to paralysis and death within minutes of contact.

Application guidelines:

Dilute 5 – 10 drops of ylang‑ylang oil in 2 tablespoons of a carrier such as coconut or olive oil.
Apply the mixture to the scalp, ensuring thorough coverage of hair shafts and roots.
Leave the treatment on for 20–30 minutes, then comb with a fine‑toothed lice comb to extract dead insects and nits.
Rinse hair with mild shampoo; repeat the process after 24 hours to target any newly hatched lice.

Effectiveness is enhanced when ylang‑ylang oil is combined with other proven agents (e.g., tea tree oil, neem oil) because the mixture broadens the spectrum of action against both lice and their eggs. Studies indicate that a 1 % ylang‑ylang solution reduces live lice counts by up to 90 % after a single exposure.

Safety considerations:

Perform a patch test on a small skin area 24 hours before full application to detect possible allergic reactions.
Avoid use on infants under six months and on individuals with known sensitivities to essential oils.
Do not apply undiluted oil directly to the scalp; excessive concentration may cause irritation.

By integrating ylang‑ylang oil into a structured treatment regimen, users can achieve swift and reliable lice eradication while minimizing reliance on synthetic insecticides.

Important Considerations During Treatment

Following Instructions Carefully

Lice infestations require swift removal to prevent spread and discomfort. The most reliable way to achieve rapid eradication is to follow the treatment directions without deviation.

Precise adherence ensures the active ingredients reach the target life stages, maintains the required exposure period, and prevents resistance development. Skipping a step or shortening the contact time reduces efficacy and may necessitate additional applications.

Read the product label in full before use.
Apply the recommended amount to dry hair, covering the scalp and all hair strands.
Leave the solution on for the exact duration indicated (often 10 minutes).
Rinse thoroughly with warm water, then comb with a fine-toothed lice comb to remove dead insects and nits.
Repeat the treatment after the specified interval, typically 7–10 days, to eliminate newly hatched lice.
Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water or seal them in plastic bags for at least 48 hours.

Following each instruction exactly as written eliminates variables that could compromise the outcome. Consistent compliance shortens the treatment timeline, reduces the need for secondary interventions, and restores a lice‑free environment efficiently.

Treating All Household Members

Treating every person in the home at the same time prevents reinfestation and accelerates eradication. Lice move quickly between heads, so isolated treatment leaves a source for new eggs.

Inspect each family member for live insects and nits; use a fine-tooth comb on damp hair.
Apply a proven pediculicide to all affected individuals according to the product label; repeat the application after 7–10 days to target hatching nits.
Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in water ≥ 130 °F (54 °C) or seal them in a plastic bag for two weeks.
Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and vehicle seats; discard vacuum bags or clean the canister immediately.
Perform a second combing session 3–5 days after the first treatment to remove any surviving nits.

Simultaneous action eliminates the reservoir of lice, reduces the need for repeated interventions, and shortens the overall clearance period.

Cleaning Personal Items

Cleaning personal items is essential to prevent reinfestation after a lice treatment. Lice and their eggs survive only a short time off a host; removing them from clothing, bedding, and accessories eliminates the source of re‑contamination.

Wash all recently worn clothing, towels, and bed linens in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) for at least 10 minutes; dry on high heat.
Seal non‑washable items (hats, scarves, hair accessories) in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks; the life span of lice without a host does not exceed this period.
Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats thoroughly; discard vacuum bags or empty canisters into a sealed container.
Soak combs, brushes, and hair clips in a solution of 1 % permethrin or 10 % isopropyl alcohol for 10 minutes, then rinse with hot water.
Store infrequently used items in airtight containers with a desiccant pack for at least 48 hours to ensure any remaining nits are non‑viable.

Promptly disposing of discarded hair and debris from treatment sessions further reduces the risk of resurgence. Combining rigorous item sanitation with direct scalp treatment yields swift and effective lice eradication.

Preventing Reinfestation

Regular Checks and Early Detection

Regular monitoring of the scalp and hair is essential for swift lice control. Conduct inspections at least twice weekly, focusing on the nape, behind the ears, and any areas where hair is dense. Use a fine-toothed comb on damp hair to separate strands and expose any nymphs or adult insects.

Look for live lice moving quickly across the hair shaft.
Search for oval, translucent eggs attached within ¼ inch of the scalp.
Note any persistent itching or redness that does not respond to typical scalp care.

Early identification limits infestation size, reduces the number of treatment cycles, and prevents secondary transmission. Immediate removal of detected lice and eggs, followed by a complete treatment regimen, curtails the population before it expands. Consistent checks therefore serve as the most efficient barrier against prolonged outbreaks.

Educating Children and Caregivers

Educating children and caregivers is essential for swift and effective lice removal. Clear, age‑appropriate instruction reduces the likelihood of reinfestation and minimizes treatment delays.

Teach children to avoid head‑to‑head contact during play.
Explain that sharing hats, brushes, or headphones transfers lice.
Instruct children to report itching or visible nits immediately.
Use simple language and visual cues to reinforce proper hygiene practices.

Caregivers must understand detection, treatment, and prevention protocols.

Perform regular scalp inspections, focusing on the nape, ears, and behind the shoulders.
Follow product directions precisely; apply medicated shampoo or lotion for the recommended duration.
Remove nits with a fine‑toothed comb, working from the scalp outward in small sections.
Wash clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water (minimum 130 °F) and dry on high heat.
Isolate infested items in sealed plastic bags for two weeks to kill surviving lice.
Educate all family members about the treatment schedule and the necessity of completing the full course, even if symptoms subside early.

Consistent communication between children and adults, combined with prompt, accurate action, dramatically shortens infestation periods and prevents spread.

Avoiding Head-to-Head Contact

Avoiding direct head-to‑head contact interrupts the primary transmission route of head lice. When individuals keep a physical distance between hair, the chance of a louse moving from one scalp to another drops dramatically, reducing infestation spread and supporting rapid eradication.

Practical measures to maintain separation include:

Keep hair tied back or secured in a bun, especially in crowded settings such as schools or sports teams.
Use personal headgear (hats, helmets, scarves) that is not shared; assign each person a dedicated item.
Enforce a “no sharing” policy for brushes, combs, hair accessories, and hats during group activities.
Organize classroom or locker‑room arrangements to keep students’ heads apart; avoid side‑by‑side seating when possible.
Encourage children to play games that do not involve close head contact, such as tag without physical contact or seated activities.

Consistent application of these steps limits opportunities for lice to transfer, accelerates the decline of existing populations, and complements chemical or mechanical treatments for a swift, comprehensive solution.

Laundering Bedding and Clothing

Laundering bedding and clothing removes lice and their eggs that have attached to fabric fibers. Hot water penetrates the material, kills insects, and detaches nits that survive washing. Immediate treatment prevents re‑infestation from hidden sources.

Effective laundering procedure:

Separate all items that may have contact with an infested person (sheets, pillowcases, blankets, pajamas, socks, underwear).
Set washing machine to the highest temperature safe for the fabric, at least 130 °F (54 °C).
Add regular detergent; consider a lice‑specific additive if recommended by a health professional.
Run a full wash cycle; the agitation and heat eliminate live lice.
Immediately transfer items to a dryer; use the highest heat setting for a minimum of 30 minutes. Heat in the dryer is critical for destroying any surviving eggs.
If drying is unavailable, place items in a sealed plastic bag for 72 hours; the lack of oxygen suffocates remaining stages.

After washing, store cleaned items in a clean environment. Repeat the process for any clothing worn during the previous 48 hours, as lice can survive on recently worn garments. Proper laundering, combined with other control measures, ensures rapid and thorough eradication of the infestation.

When to Seek Professional Help

Persistent Infestations

Persistent lice infestations demand a systematic approach that addresses both the insects and the conditions that enable their survival. Immediate treatment must combine chemical or physical agents with environmental control to prevent recurrence.

A comprehensive protocol includes:

Therapeutic product selection – Choose a pediculicide with proven ovicidal activity, such as a 1% permethrin lotion or a dimethicone‑based silicone. Follow label instructions precisely; apply to dry hair, leave for the recommended duration, then rinse thoroughly.
Second‑dose timing – Re‑apply the product 7–10 days after the first treatment to eradicate newly hatched nymphs that survived the initial exposure.
Mechanical removal – Use a fine‑toothed lice comb on wet, conditioned hair after each application. Perform systematic strokes from scalp to tip, cleaning the comb after every pass.
Personal hygiene measures – Wash all worn clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in airtight bags for at least two weeks.
Environmental decontamination – Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and vehicle seats. Discard hair accessories, brushes, and combs that cannot be disinfected.
Preventive education – Instruct all household members on avoiding head‑to‑head contact, not sharing personal items, and performing weekly checks for lice eggs.

Monitoring continues for four weeks after the final application. Absence of live lice or viable eggs during this period confirms eradication. If live insects reappear, repeat the entire protocol with an alternative pediculicide to address possible resistance.

Allergic Reactions

Allergic reactions are a common complication when treating head‑lice infestations. Topical insecticides, such as permethrin or pyrethrin formulations, contain chemicals that can trigger skin irritation, hives, or respiratory symptoms in sensitive individuals. Systemic antihistamines or corticosteroids may be required to control severe responses, and medical evaluation is advisable before initiating treatment.

To minimize the risk of hypersensitivity while achieving rapid eradication, follow these steps:

Conduct a patch test: apply a small amount of the product to a discreet area of skin, wait 24 hours, and observe for redness, swelling, or itching.
Choose low‑allergen options: silicone‑based dimethicone lotions or physically acting agents (e.g., oil‑based treatments) avoid neurotoxic chemicals and reduce allergic potential.
Use protective equipment: wear gloves and ensure adequate ventilation during application to limit dermal and inhalation exposure.
Monitor for adverse signs: document any rash, difficulty breathing, or swelling within the first few hours after treatment; seek immediate medical care if symptoms progress.
Follow dosage instructions precisely: over‑application increases chemical load and elevates the chance of reaction without improving efficacy.

If an allergic event occurs, discontinue the product, rinse the scalp with mild soap and water, and administer an appropriate antihistamine. In cases of anaphylaxis, emergency medical treatment is mandatory. Selecting hypoallergenic formulations and adhering to safety protocols enables swift lice elimination while protecting against immune‑mediated complications.

Scalp Irritation

Scalp irritation commonly arises during lice eradication because chemical pediculicides, heat treatments, or vigorous scratching can damage the epidermis. The irritation may present as redness, itching, or a burning sensation, potentially discouraging continued treatment.

Effective management of scalp discomfort includes:

Selecting a product with a low‑irritant formulation, such as dimethicone‑based lotions, which immobilize lice without penetrating the skin.
Performing a patch test on a small area of the scalp 15 minutes before full application to detect adverse reactions.
Limiting exposure time to the recommended duration; excessive contact increases the risk of dermatitis.
Applying a soothing barrier, such as a thin layer of aloe vera gel or a fragrance‑free moisturizer, after the treatment has dried.
Avoiding mechanical removal methods that involve aggressive combing; use a fine‑toothed nit comb gently, detangling hair with a conditioner to reduce friction.

If irritation persists beyond 24 hours, discontinue the product and consult a healthcare professional. Prescription‑strength corticosteroid creams may be required to control inflammation, but they should not replace lice‑specific treatment. Maintaining a clean environment—washing bedding and clothing at 130 °F (54 °C) and vacuuming upholstery—prevents reinfestation without further exposing the scalp to irritants.