How can lice and nits be effectively eliminated at home? - briefly
Apply an FDA‑approved pediculicide to the scalp, follow the label’s timing, then comb wet hair with a fine‑tooth nit comb to extract dead insects and eggs; wash clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water and vacuum the surroundings. Repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eradicate any newly hatched nits.
How can lice and nits be effectively eliminated at home? - in detail
Detecting an infestation promptly allows a focused response. Examine the scalp with a fine-tooth comb, pulling hair away from the scalp and inspecting the comb teeth for live insects or oval, white eggs attached close to the hair shaft. Separate affected individuals to prevent cross‑contamination.
Apply a proven pediculicide according to the product label. Options include:
- Permethrin 1 % lotion: apply to dry hair, leave for 10 minutes, rinse, then repeat after 7–10 days.
- Dimethicone‑based cream: coat hair thoroughly, leave for 30 minutes, wash out, repeat after 7 days.
- Benzyl alcohol lotion (5 %): apply to damp hair, keep for 10 minutes, rinse, repeat after 7 days.
If chemical treatments are unsuitable, consider non‑chemical methods:
- Wet‑comb technique: saturate hair with conditioner, use a fine‑tooth nit comb, pull each section from scalp to tip, cleaning the comb after every pass. Perform daily for 10 days, then twice weekly for two additional weeks.
- Heat application: use a hair dryer on high heat for 10 seconds per section, ensuring the scalp is not burned. Combine with wet‑comb for enhanced removal.
After treatment, eliminate residual eggs:
- Section hair, run a nit comb from root to tip, discarding each combed section on a white paper to verify removal.
- Repeat the combing process after 7–10 days to capture any newly hatched insects.
Sanitize the environment to break the life cycle:
- Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels used in the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Place unwashable items in sealed plastic bags for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard vacuum bags immediately.
- Soak hairbrushes, combs, and styling tools in hot water (≥ 50 °C) for 10 minutes or replace them.
Monitor for reinfestation by inspecting the scalp every two days for three weeks. If live insects reappear after two treatment cycles, consult a healthcare professional for prescription‑strength options such as ivermectin lotion or oral medication.
Prevent future outbreaks by:
- Avoiding head‑to‑head contact during play or sports.
- Not sharing hats, scarves, hair accessories, or bedding.
- Regularly checking children’s hair after group activities.
- Using a preventive nit‑comb weekly during high‑risk periods.
Following these steps systematically eliminates the parasites and reduces the likelihood of recurrence.