How can lice be eliminated from the head in one go? - briefly
Apply a FDA‑approved pediculicide (e.g., 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % malathion) to thoroughly saturated hair, leave it for the recommended time, then comb out all live insects and nits with a fine‑toothed lice comb; repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate any hatchlings. This single‑session protocol, when performed correctly, removes the infestation without additional applications.
How can lice be eliminated from the head in one go? - in detail
Eliminating head‑lice infestations with a single, comprehensive approach requires combining chemical or physical treatment, meticulous combing, and environmental decontamination.
A proven regimen includes:
- Apply an FDA‑approved pediculicide such as 1 % permethrin lotion or a dimethicone‑based product. Follow the label instructions precisely, leaving the preparation on the scalp for the recommended contact time (usually 10 minutes).
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water, then dry the hair completely. Wet hair facilitates nits adhering to the shaft; drying prevents re‑attachment.
- Use a fine‑toothed nit comb (0.2 mm spacing) on the damp hair. Begin at the scalp, pulling the comb forward to remove both live insects and eggs. Work section by section, wiping the comb after each pass.
- Repeat the combing process after 7–9 days. Any nits that survived the initial application will have hatched, allowing a second removal without additional chemicals.
- Launder bedding, clothing, and personal items in water ≥ 50 °C or place them in sealed plastic bags for two weeks to kill residual organisms.
- Vacuum upholstered furniture and car seats to eliminate fallen lice and nits.
- Avoid sharing personal items (combs, hats, headphones) until treatment is complete.
Key points for success:
- Do not skip the second combing session; it addresses eggs that escaped the first treatment.
- Use only products approved for the age group of the affected individual; infants under two months require non‑chemical methods.
- Verify removal by inspecting the hair under bright light; absence of live lice and empty egg shells indicates effective eradication.
Following this structured protocol typically resolves an infestation in one treatment cycle, eliminating both adult insects and their eggs without the need for repeated chemical applications.