How are lice removed and what do they look like? - briefly
Lice are eradicated using a medicated shampoo or lotion followed by thorough combing with a fine‑toothed nit comb, and by washing clothing and bedding in hot water. Adult lice measure 2–3 mm, are tan to gray with six legs, while their eggs (nits) appear as tiny white or yellowish ovals attached to hair shafts.
How are lice removed and what do they look like? - in detail
Lice are small, wing‑less insects that feed on human blood. Adult head‑lice measure 2‑3 mm in length, have a flattened, elongated body, six legs with clawed tarsi for grasping hair shafts, and a translucent to grayish‑brown coloration. Nymphs resemble adults but are smaller and lack fully developed reproductive organs. Eggs (nits) appear as oval, white or yellowish shells firmly cemented to the base of hair strands, typically within 1 cm of the scalp; they are difficult to dislodge because the adhesive hardens within a few hours.
Effective eradication requires a two‑step approach: killing live insects and removing residual nits. The following protocols are widely accepted in clinical practice.
Chemical treatment
- Apply a pediculicide containing 1 % permethrin, 0.5 % malathion, or 0.05 % ivermectin according to manufacturer instructions.
- Leave the product on the scalp for the recommended exposure time (usually 10 minutes for permethrin, 8 hours for malathion).
- Rinse thoroughly, then repeat the application after 7–10 days to target newly hatched nymphs that survived the first dose.
Mechanical removal
- Use a fine‑toothed nit comb on wet, conditioned hair.
- Section the hair and comb from scalp to tip in a systematic manner, cleaning the comb after each pass.
- Perform combing sessions every 2–3 days for at least two weeks to eliminate any surviving nits.
Environmental decontamination
- Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in airtight containers for a minimum of two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats to remove stray lice and eggs.
Alternative options
- Dimethicone‑based lotions create a physical barrier that suffocates lice without neurotoxic action; apply and leave for 8 hours before combing.
- Oral ivermectin (200 µg/kg) prescribed by a physician can be used when topical agents fail or resistance is suspected.
Successful control depends on strict adherence to the treatment schedule, thorough combing to extract nits, and consistent cleaning of personal items. Monitoring for reinfestation should continue for four weeks, with repeat examinations of the scalp and hair to confirm the absence of live lice and viable eggs.