How can a person cure themselves of lice? - briefly
Use an over‑the‑counter pediculicide (shampoo, lotion, or cream) according to the label, then remove remaining nits with a fine‑toothed comb after each application. Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water and repeat the treatment in 7–10 days to eradicate any newly hatched insects.
How can a person cure themselves of lice? - in detail
Effective self‑treatment of head lice requires a systematic approach that combines direct removal, appropriate medication, and environmental sanitation.
First, confirm the infestation by inspecting the scalp and hair for live insects and viable nits attached within ¼ inch of the scalp. Use a fine‑tooth lice comb on damp hair, section by section, to locate and extract parasites. After each pass, wipe the comb on a tissue and discard it or rinse with hot water.
Second, apply an approved pediculicide. Options include:
- Permethrin 1 % lotion – applied to dry hair, left for 10 minutes, then rinsed.
- Pyrethrin‑based shampoo – applied according to label instructions, usually a 10‑minute exposure.
- Spinosad 0.9 % lotion – a single 10‑minute treatment with high efficacy against resistant strains.
If resistance is suspected, consider a second‑line agent such as malathion 0.5 % or benzyl alcohol lotion, following the specific dosage schedule. Repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched nits that survived the initial application.
Third, eliminate residual nits mechanically. After chemical treatment, comb the hair again with a fine‑tooth nit comb at least twice daily for a week. Remove each nit with a pin or tweezers, being careful not to damage the scalp.
Fourth, decontaminate personal items. Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks or placed in a freezer at –4 °F for 24 hours. Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture to remove stray insects.
Fifth, prevent re‑infestation. Advise all household members to avoid sharing combs, hats, pillows, or headphones. Encourage regular head checks for at least three weeks after treatment. In environments such as schools, notify authorities so that a coordinated response can be implemented.
Finally, monitor for treatment failure. Persistent itching or detection of live lice after the second treatment cycle warrants consultation with a healthcare professional for possible prescription‑strength therapy or alternative regimens.