How can I clean my head of lice at home? - briefly
Apply a medicated shampoo or a 1 % permethrin solution, then comb the wet, conditioned hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb to remove lice and nits. Repeat the process after 7–10 days to eliminate any newly hatched insects.
How can I clean my head of lice at home? - in detail
Removing head lice without professional assistance requires a systematic approach that combines chemical or natural agents, thorough combing, and environmental decontamination.
Begin by assembling supplies: a fine-toothed nit‑comb, a disposable towel, a plastic cap, a hair dryer (optional), and a treatment product. Choose an over‑the‑counter pediculicide containing permethrin (1 %) or pyrethrin, following the label for age restrictions and application time. Apply the shampoo or lotion to dry hair, saturating the scalp, leave for the specified period, then rinse thoroughly. For those preferring non‑chemical options, apply a generous amount of olive oil, coconut oil, or a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water; heat the hair with a dryer for several minutes to suffocate the insects, then proceed to combing.
The combing step is critical. After treatment, divide the hair into sections of 2–3 cm. Starting at the scalp, draw the nit‑comb through each section slowly, wiping the teeth on a paper towel after each pass. Repeat the process at least twice per section, ensuring no live nits remain. Perform a second combing session 7–10 days later to eliminate any newly hatched lice.
Simultaneously, decontaminate personal items. Place all bedding, hats, scarves, and hair accessories in a sealed plastic bag and wash at 60 °C (140 °F) for a minimum of 30 minutes, or dry‑clean if washing is unsuitable. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward. Soak combs, brushes, and hair accessories in hot water (≥ 50 °C) for 10 minutes.
Maintain vigilance for at least four weeks. Inspect the scalp every 2–3 days, repeating the combing routine if any live insects are detected. Record observations to track progress and prevent reinfestation.