How can head lice be removed? - briefly
Use a fine-toothed nit comb on wet, conditioned hair after applying a pediculicide or a non‑chemical treatment, repeating the process every 7–10 days for several cycles. Wash clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water and vacuum the environment to prevent re‑infestation.
How can head lice be removed? - in detail
Head lice infestations are eliminated through a combination of chemical treatment, meticulous combing, and environmental control.
The most reliable approach begins with a pediculicide shampoo or lotion containing 1 % permethrin, 0.5 % pyrethrin, or a dimethicone formulation. Apply the product according to the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring thorough coverage of the scalp and hair shafts. Leave the solution on for the prescribed duration, then rinse completely.
After the chemical step, use a fine‑toothed nit comb (metal or plastic) to remove live insects and eggs. Follow these guidelines:
- Divide hair into sections no wider than one inch.
- Starting at the scalp, pull the comb through each section from root to tip.
- Wipe the comb on a white tissue after each stroke to detect remaining lice.
- Repeat the process for the entire head, then again after 7–10 days to catch any newly hatched nymphs.
If a pediculicide is contraindicated—due to allergy, resistance, or personal preference—opt for a non‑chemical regimen. Apply a saturated olive‑oil or dimethicone mixture to the scalp, cover with a shower cap for 30 minutes, then comb as described above. This suffocates the parasites without insecticidal agents.
Environmental measures reduce reinfestation risk:
- Wash bedding, clothing, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F/54 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats to remove stray nits.
Regular monitoring confirms success. Inspect the scalp weekly for at least three weeks; absence of live lice and viable eggs indicates eradication. If live insects reappear, repeat the treatment cycle, preferably switching to a different active ingredient to address potential resistance.