How can lice be killed in one go? - briefly
A single, correctly applied 1 % permethrin shampoo or a prescription 0.5 % ivermectin lotion, combined with thorough nit removal, eradicates an infestation in one treatment. High‑temperature devices that raise hair to about 50 °C for ten minutes also kill both lice and eggs instantly.
How can lice be killed in one go? - in detail
Effective eradication of head‑lice infestations in a single application requires a coordinated approach that combines a proven pediculicide, precise timing, and thorough removal of nymphs and eggs. The process begins with accurate identification; live lice and viable nits must be visible on the scalp or hair shafts. Once confirmed, the following steps ensure a one‑time success.
Apply a licensed insecticide containing either permethrin (1 %) or pyrethrin with piperonyl butoxide, or a prescription agent such as malathion (0.5 %) or ivermectin lotion (0.5 %). Follow the product label for dosage and exposure time—typically 10 minutes for permethrin, 8–12 minutes for malathion, and 10 minutes for ivermectin. After the recommended interval, rinse the hair thoroughly with lukewarm water. Do not shave the scalp; hair length does not affect efficacy when the correct concentration is used.
Immediately after rinsing, perform a meticulous combing session using a fine‑toothed nit comb. Divide the hair into sections, pull each strand taut, and run the comb from the scalp outward in a single pass. Repeat the pass three times per section to capture any surviving nymphs and dislodge hatched nits. Dispose of combed material in a sealed container.
Leave the treated individual unwashed for at least 24 hours to allow the chemical to act on any newly hatched lice. A second combing session after this period is advisable to verify complete clearance; however, the initial treatment should have eliminated the entire population if applied correctly.
Alternative non‑chemical options include:
- Dimethicone (silicone‑based) lotion, applied for 10 minutes, then rinsed and combed; it suffocates lice without resistance concerns.
- Heat treatment using a calibrated device that raises scalp temperature to 50 °C for 10 minutes; the temperature kills both lice and eggs instantly.
- Occlusive methods such as petroleum jelly applied overnight, followed by thorough combing; effectiveness varies and may require repeat.
Environmental measures complement the primary treatment: wash clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 60 °C) or place them in a sealed bag for two weeks; vacuum carpets and upholstery to remove stray nits.
When all steps are executed precisely, the infestation can be resolved in a single round of treatment, eliminating both adult insects and their eggs without the need for repeated applications.