How can lice be eliminated if it seems impossible? - briefly
Apply a proven pediculicide and comb out nits, then repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched lice. Clean personal items and bedding with hot water or seal them in plastic for two weeks to prevent re‑infestation.
How can lice be eliminated if it seems impossible? - in detail
When lice infestations persist despite standard treatments, a systematic approach is required. Understanding the parasite’s life cycle clarifies why some interventions fail. Adult lice lay eggs (nits) attached to hair shafts; eggs hatch in 7–10 days, and nymphs mature in another 7–10 days. Any method must target all three stages simultaneously.
Chemical options
- Permethrin 1 % lotion, applied to dry hair, left for 10 minutes, then rinsed. Repeat after 7 days to catch newly hatched nymphs.
- Pyrethrin‑based sprays, used with a fine‑toothed comb immediately after application.
- Spinosad 0.9 % lotion, a single application lasting 10 minutes, effective against resistant strains.
Physical removal
- Wet‑comb technique: saturate hair with conditioner, use a metal nit comb, pull from scalp outward, cleaning the comb after each pass. Perform every 2–3 days for two weeks.
- Heat treatment: specialized devices that emit infrared heat at 130 °C for 10 seconds per strand, destroying lice and eggs without chemicals.
Environmental control
- Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels in water ≥ 60 °C or use a dryer on high heat for 30 minutes.
- Seal non‑washable items in sealed plastic bags for at least 2 weeks to starve lice.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard vacuum bags immediately.
Resistance management
- Rotate between permethrin and spinosad if treatment failure occurs, reducing selection pressure.
- Avoid repeated use of the same over‑the‑counter product for more than two cycles.
Follow‑up protocol
- Day 0: Apply chosen chemical, perform wet‑comb.
- Day 7: Re‑apply chemical, repeat combing.
- Day 14: Final combing session; inspect scalp for live lice and viable nits.
- Day 21: Conduct a visual check; if any lice remain, repeat full cycle with an alternative agent.
Combining chemical treatment, meticulous combing, and strict environmental hygiene eliminates infestations that otherwise appear intractable. Consistency across the 21‑day life cycle ensures no survivors persist.