How can I quickly kill lice at home? - briefly
Apply an FDA‑approved pediculicide shampoo or lotion as directed, then comb out nits with a fine‑toothed lice comb after 10–15 minutes. Wash clothing, bedding, and personal items in water ≥130 °F (54 °C) or seal them in a plastic bag for two weeks to prevent re‑infestation.
How can I quickly kill lice at home? - in detail
Eliminating head‑lice infestations rapidly at home requires a combination of direct treatment, thorough removal of eggs, and environmental decontamination.
Apply an approved pediculicide (e.g., 1 % permethrin lotion or 0.5 % malathion) to dry hair, following the product’s timing instructions exactly. Rinse with lukewarm water, then use a fine‑toothed nit comb to separate live insects from the strands. Work from scalp outward, cleaning the comb after each pass with hot, soapy water.
Repeat the chemical application after 7–10 days, as newly hatched nymphs may have survived the first round.
For households preferring non‑chemical options, wet‑combing with a fine metal comb soaked in a 1 % dimethicone solution can suffocate both lice and nits. Perform combing every 2–3 days for two weeks.
Environmental measures:
- Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in water ≥ 50 °C; dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items (hats, hair accessories) in sealed plastic bags for at least two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard vacuum bags immediately.
Avoid sharing personal items such as combs, brushes, hats, and headphones until the infestation is cleared.
Monitoring: inspect the scalp daily for live insects or viable eggs. If live lice persist after two treatment cycles, consult a healthcare professional for prescription‑strength options.
Following these steps consistently eliminates the infestation within a week to ten days while minimizing the risk of re‑infestation.