How can I get rid of lice: what treatments? - briefly
Effective lice eradication relies on a licensed pediculicide such as 1 % permethrin, or, when resistance is suspected, a prescription agent like malathion or oral ivermectin. After application, comb out nits with a fine‑tooth lice comb and repeat the treatment in 7–10 days to eliminate any newly hatched insects.
How can I get rid of lice: what treatments? - in detail
Lice infestations demand immediate and thorough intervention. Effective removal relies on a combination of chemical, mechanical, and environmental strategies.
Topical pediculicides constitute the primary chemical approach. Available options include:
- Permethrin 1 % lotion, applied to dry hair, left for 10 minutes, then rinsed; repeat after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched nits.
- Pyrethrin‑based products combined with piperonyl‑butoxide, suitable for sensitive skin; follow manufacturer’s timing instructions.
- Malathion 0.5 % lotion, reserved for resistant cases; requires 8–12 hours of contact before washing.
- Prescription‑only agents such as spinosad 0.9 % suspension or ivermectin 0.5 % lotion, administered according to medical guidance for resistant infestations.
Mechanical removal complements chemical treatment. Fine‑tooth nit combs, used on damp hair, extract live lice and eggs. Recommended procedure:
- Apply conditioner to reduce hair friction.
- Section hair and comb from scalp outward, cleaning comb after each pass.
- Repeat combing every 2–3 days for two weeks.
Environmental measures reduce re‑infestation risk. Key actions:
- Wash clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in sealed plastic bags for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard vacuum bags promptly.
- Avoid sharing personal items such as combs, hats, or headphones.
Alternative therapies receive mixed scientific support. Dimethicone‑based silicone lotions physically coat lice, leading to immobilization; they lack neurotoxic action and present low toxicity. Essential‑oil formulations (e.g., tea‑tree, neem) show limited efficacy and may cause skin irritation; use only under professional supervision.
Safety considerations include:
- Confirm age‑appropriate product selection; some agents are contraindicated for children under two months.
- Observe for allergic reactions: redness, itching, or swelling require immediate discontinuation and medical evaluation.
- Follow dosage and exposure limits strictly; over‑application does not improve outcomes and increases toxicity risk.
Follow‑up assessment should occur 7–10 days after initial treatment. Absence of live lice confirms success; detection of any remaining insects mandates repeat of the chosen regimen or escalation to a prescription option. Continuous monitoring for two weeks ensures complete eradication and prevents resurgence.