How can I get rid of head lice using shampoo? - briefly
Apply a licensed pediculicide shampoo (e.g., 1 % permethrin or pyrethrin) to dry hair, massage for the recommended time, rinse, and comb out all nits; repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eradicate any newly hatched lice.
How can I get rid of head lice using shampoo? - in detail
Eliminating head‑lice infestations with a medicated shampoo requires precise preparation, correct application, and follow‑up measures.
First, select a product that contains an approved insecticide such as pyrethrin, permethrin (1 %), or dimethicone. Verify that the label states effectiveness against both lice and nits, and check age restrictions and any contraindications (e.g., allergy to ingredients, open scalp lesions).
Second, read the instructions thoroughly. Typical steps include:
- Pre‑treatment – Separate hair into sections, detangle with a wide‑tooth comb, and rinse with warm water to remove excess debris.
- Application – Saturate the scalp and hair from roots to tips, ensuring the shampoo reaches the nape of the neck and behind the ears.
- Contact time – Leave the product on for the period specified (usually 5–10 minutes). Do not rinse earlier; insufficient exposure reduces efficacy.
- Rinsing – Use lukewarm water to wash out the shampoo completely. Avoid hot water, which may irritate the scalp.
Third, after the initial treatment, comb the hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb while the hair is still damp. Remove each dead louse and egg, wiping the comb on a tissue after each pass. This mechanical step eliminates many surviving nits that the chemical may have missed.
Fourth, repeat the entire process after 7–10 days. Newly hatched lice emerge from eggs that survived the first application; a second treatment at this interval eradicates them before they reproduce.
Fifth, decontaminate personal items to prevent reinfestation:
- Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used in the 48 hours before treatment in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items (hats, hairbrushes) in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats to remove stray lice or eggs.
Finally, monitor the scalp daily for two weeks. If live lice are observed after the second treatment, consider consulting a healthcare professional for alternative prescription options (e.g., malathion lotion, ivermectin) or for confirmation of correct product usage.