How can a girl get rid of lice? - briefly
Apply a 1 % permethrin or pyrethrin shampoo, leave it on the scalp for the recommended time, then comb out all nits with a fine-tooth nit comb; repeat the treatment after seven days. Wash clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water or seal them in a plastic bag for two weeks to prevent re‑infestation.
How can a girl get rid of lice? - in detail
A thorough approach to eliminating head‑lice infestation in a young female involves three phases: identification, treatment, and prevention of re‑infestation.
First, confirm the presence of live insects or viable nits. Examine the scalp under bright light, parting hair close to the scalp from the crown to the nape. Viable nits are firmly attached to the hair shaft, appear tan or brown, and are within ¼ inch of the scalp. Live lice move rapidly when disturbed.
Second, apply an approved pediculicide. Options include:
- Permethrin 1 % lotion – apply to dry hair, leave for 10 minutes, then rinse. Repeat after 7 days.
- Pyrethrin‑based spray – follow manufacturer instructions precisely; avoid excessive exposure.
- Prescription ivermectin lotion – a single application may suffice; consult a healthcare professional for dosage.
- Benzyl alcohol lotion – suffocates lice; repeat in 7 days for nits that hatch.
If chemical agents are unsuitable, consider non‑chemical methods:
- Wet combing – saturate hair with conditioner, use a fine‑toothed lice comb, pull from scalp outward. Perform the procedure every 2–3 days for two weeks.
- Heat treatment – apply a hair dryer on low heat while combing; ensure the temperature does not burn the scalp.
- Essential‑oil mixtures – combine 10 % tea‑tree oil with a carrier oil, apply to hair, leave 30 minutes, then wash. Evidence of efficacy is limited; use with caution.
After treatment, clean the environment to remove detached nits and eggs:
- Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
- Soak combs, brushes, and hair accessories in hot water (≥ 130 °F) for 10 minutes.
Finally, monitor for recurrence. Inspect the scalp twice weekly for three weeks. If live lice reappear, repeat the chosen pediculicide according to the product’s schedule or consult a medical professional for alternative therapy.