How can I get rid of lice and nits on the head? - briefly
Apply a pediculicide shampoo or lotion according to the label, then comb the hair with a fine‑tooth nit comb to remove all live insects and eggs. Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water or seal them in plastic bags for two weeks to prevent re‑infestation.
How can I get rid of lice and nits on the head? - in detail
Eliminate head‑lice infestations by following a systematic approach that combines chemical treatment, mechanical removal, and environmental sanitation.
First, confirm the presence of live insects and their oval eggs. Adult lice are about 2–3 mm long, tan to gray, and move quickly on the scalp. Nits appear as tiny, white or yellowish shells attached firmly to hair shafts within ¼ inch of the scalp. Use a fine‑tooth comb on wet, conditioned hair to improve visibility.
Apply an approved pediculicide according to the package instructions. Permethrin 1 % lotion and pyrethrin‑based shampoos are available without prescription; malathion 0.5 % and ivermectin 0.5 % require a doctor’s order. Apply the product to dry hair, leave it on for the recommended duration, then rinse thoroughly. Do not exceed the suggested frequency—usually a second application 7–10 days later—to target newly hatched lice.
Remove remaining eggs mechanically. After treatment, comb the hair with a fine nit comb while the hair is still damp. Section the scalp, pull each section taut, and run the comb from the scalp outward in short strokes. Wipe the comb on a disposable surface after each pass. Repeat the combing process for at least three consecutive days.
Sanitize personal items and surroundings. Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat. Seal non‑washable items such as hats, hair accessories, and plush toys in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks, or place them in a freezer at –20 °C for 24 hours. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats to eliminate stray insects.
Monitor for reinfestation. Examine the scalp daily for the next two weeks. If live lice reappear after the second chemical treatment, consult a healthcare professional for alternative prescription options. Persistent cases may indicate resistance; in such instances, oral ivermectin or a combination therapy may be necessary.
Maintain preventive measures. Advise regular head‑checking in schools or group settings, discourage sharing of personal hair items, and educate caregivers about early detection. Consistent vigilance reduces the likelihood of future outbreaks.