How can lice be removed? - briefly
Apply a licensed pediculicide to the scalp, follow the product’s contact time, then comb out nits with a fine‑toothed nit comb while the hair is wet and conditioned. Repeat the process after 7–10 days and launder all clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water to prevent reinfestation.
How can lice be removed? - in detail
Lice infestations require a systematic approach that combines chemical treatment, mechanical removal, and environmental control.
Effective chemical agents include permethrin 1 % lotion, pyrethrin‑based shampoos, and dimethicone‑based products. Apply according to manufacturer instructions: wet hair, apply product, leave for the specified time, then rinse thoroughly. Repeat the application after 7–10 days to target newly hatched nymphs that survived the first treatment.
Mechanical removal involves a fine‑toothed nit comb. After the chemical step, section hair and comb from scalp to ends, wiping the comb after each pass. Perform combing daily for at least one week, then every other day for two additional weeks to ensure all live insects and eggs are eliminated.
Environmental measures reduce reinfestation risk. Wash clothing, bedding, 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 two weeks. Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture to remove detached nits.
A concise protocol:
- Apply a permethrin or dimethicone preparation; follow label timing.
- Rinse and dry hair; immediately begin daily nit‑comb sessions.
- Repeat chemical application after 7–10 days.
- Continue combing for 14 days, inspecting for live lice each session.
- Launder or isolate all personal items used during the infestation period.
- Vacuum living areas; discard or clean hair‑care tools.
If resistance to standard agents is suspected, consult a healthcare professional for prescription‑strength ivermectin or oral medication. Monitoring for treatment failure includes checking for live lice three days after the second application; persistence warrants alternative therapy.