How can lice and nits be eradicated at home? - briefly
Apply a medicated lice shampoo (e.g., 1 % permethrin) to wet hair, leave it on per instructions, then comb with a fine-toothed nit comb to remove live insects and eggs; repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to catch any newly hatched nits. Wash all bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water and vacuum the living area to eliminate residual eggs.
How can lice and nits be eradicated at home? - in detail
Eliminating head lice and their eggs at home requires a systematic approach that combines direct treatment, thorough cleaning of personal items, and preventive habits.
First, confirm the presence of live insects and attached eggs. Examine the scalp in sections, using a fine-toothed lice comb under bright light. Separate each affected individual to prevent further spread.
Treatment options
- Over‑the‑counter pediculicides: Apply a product containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin according to the label. Leave the solution on the hair for the specified time, then rinse thoroughly.
- Prescription agents: Use malathion 0.5 % or ivermectin lotion if resistance to standard products is suspected. Follow medical guidance for dosage and repeat applications.
- Non‑chemical methods: Soak hair in hot water (≥130 °F/54 °C) for 10 minutes, then comb out nits. Apply dimethicone‑based lotions, which suffocate insects without insecticide resistance concerns.
Manual removal protocol
- Wash hair with a regular shampoo; pat dry.
- Apply a generous amount of conditioner to detangle.
- Starting at the crown, run a fine‑toothed comb through a ¼‑inch section, moving from scalp outward.
- Wipe the comb on a white tissue after each pass to detect eggs.
- Repeat the process every 2–3 days for two weeks, covering the entire scalp each session.
- Dispose of collected nits by sealing them in a plastic bag and discarding in the trash.
Environmental decontamination
- Machine‑wash all clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥130 °F/54 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Place non‑washable items (hats, hair accessories) in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks or treat them with a lice‑killing spray approved for fabrics.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and vehicle seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
- Clean hairbrushes, combs, and styling tools by soaking them in hot water for 10 minutes, then rinsing.
Preventive measures
- Prohibit sharing of hats, scarves, hairbrushes, headphones, or pillows.
- Conduct weekly scalp inspections, especially after playdates or group activities.
- Encourage children to keep hair tied back during sports or sleepovers.
- Maintain a clean environment by laundering personal items regularly.
By adhering to this comprehensive plan—applying an effective treatment, removing eggs manually, sanitizing the surroundings, and instituting strict hygiene practices—infestation can be eradicated and recurrence minimized.