How can lice be expelled? - briefly
Apply a licensed pediculicide shampoo or lotion, comb out nits with a fine‑toothed nit comb, repeat the treatment after 7–10 days, and wash bedding and clothing in hot water. Eliminate reinfestation by vacuuming carpets and avoiding head‑to‑head contact.
How can lice be expelled? - in detail
Lice infestations require a systematic approach that combines direct removal, chemical intervention, and environmental sanitation.
Direct removal involves using a fine-toothed comb on damp hair. Comb the scalp from the roots to the tips, rinsing the comb after each pass. Repeat the process every 2–3 days for two weeks to capture newly hatched insects.
Chemical intervention includes over‑the‑counter pediculicides containing permethrin (1 %) or pyrethrin. Apply according to the product label, leave the preparation on the scalp for the recommended time, then rinse thoroughly. A second application after 7–10 days eliminates any surviving nymphs that were not reached initially.
Alternative agents such as dimethicone, benzyl alcohol, or ivermectin lotion provide options for individuals with resistance or sensitivity to traditional insecticides. Follow the specific dosing schedule to maintain efficacy.
Environmental control reduces reinfestation risk. Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in plastic bags for at least two weeks. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard vacuum bags immediately after use.
Regular monitoring confirms success. Inspect the scalp daily for live insects or viable eggs (nits) attached within 1 mm of the hair shaft. Absence of live lice for three consecutive weeks indicates effective eradication.
A combined regimen—mechanical combing, appropriate topical treatment, and thorough decontamination of personal items—provides the most reliable method for eliminating head lice.