How can lice be dealt with at home on the head? - briefly
Use a permethrin 1 % shampoo or a dimethicone‑based lotion, apply according to instructions, then remove nits with a fine‑toothed comb after thorough rinsing. Repeat the treatment 7–10 days later to eliminate any newly hatched lice.
How can lice be dealt with at home on the head? - in detail
Treating head‑lice infestation at home requires a systematic approach that combines direct removal, chemical or natural agents, and environmental decontamination.
Begin with a thorough wet‑combing procedure. Apply a generous amount of conditioner to damp hair, then use a fine‑toothed lice comb, moving from scalp to tip in small sections. After each pass, wipe the comb on a white tissue and discard any captured insects. Repeat the process every 2–3 days for at least two weeks to intercept newly hatched nymphs.
Select an appropriate topical product. Over‑the‑counter pediculicides containing permethrin 1 % or pyrethrin 5 % are approved for scalp use. Follow label instructions precisely: apply to dry hair, leave for the recommended duration, then rinse. For families preferring non‑synthetic options, dimethicone‑based lotions or essential‑oil blends (e.g., 1 % tea‑tree oil in a carrier) have demonstrated efficacy in laboratory studies, provided the concentration does not irritate the skin.
Implement environmental controls concurrently. Wash all bedding, towels, and clothing worn within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in plastic bags for two weeks or exposed to a freezer at –20 °C for 24 hours. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
Consider adjunctive measures to reduce reinfestation. Avoid sharing combs, hats, or hair accessories. Trim long hair when feasible, as shorter strands limit lice mobility. Regularly inspect the scalp, especially behind the ears and at the nape, for live insects or viable eggs.
If symptoms persist after three treatment cycles, seek professional medical advice. Resistance to common pediculicides is documented; a prescription‑strength formulation or alternative therapy may be required.
Overall, success depends on consistent application of mechanical removal, effective topical agents, and strict hygiene practices within the household environment.