How can lice be removed from a human's body? - briefly
Apply a lice‑killing shampoo or lotion (e.g., permethrin or pyrethrin) as directed, then comb the hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb to eliminate live insects and eggs, repeating the treatment after 7–10 days.
How can lice be removed from a human's body? - in detail
Lice infestations are eliminated through a series of coordinated steps: identification, mechanical extraction, pharmacological treatment, and post‑treatment monitoring.
The first step is to confirm the presence of live insects and their eggs. Examine the scalp with a fine‑tooth comb under bright light, pulling hair away from the skin. Live nits appear as oval, brownish‑black structures firmly attached to the shaft within a few millimeters of the scalp; adult lice are gray‑white and move quickly.
Mechanical removal relies on a specialized nit comb. After wetting the hair with a conditioner to reduce tangling, comb through each section from the scalp outward, wiping the comb blade after each pass. Continue until no live insects or viable eggs are observed. Repeat the process every 2–3 days for at least two weeks to catch newly hatched nymphs.
Chemical control supplements manual effort. Apply a pediculicide containing either permethrin (1 %) or pyrethrin plus piperonyl‑butoxide, following the product’s instructions precisely. Leave the preparation on the scalp for the recommended duration, then rinse thoroughly. For resistant populations, a second‑line agent such as malathion (0.5 %) or benzyl alcohol (5 %) may be prescribed. Avoid over‑application; excessive exposure can cause skin irritation.
Alternative therapies include dimethicone lotion, which suffocates insects, and oral ivermectin, administered as a single dose of 200 µg/kg body weight, with a repeat dose after 7 days if live lice persist. Both options require medical oversight.
Environmental decontamination reduces reinfestation risk. Wash bedding, clothing, and towels 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 upholstery; discard vacuum bags immediately.
After treatment, conduct a follow‑up inspection at 7‑day intervals for three weeks. If any live lice are detected, repeat the mechanical combing and consider a second course of medication. Persistent cases may indicate resistance or misapplication and warrant professional consultation.
By adhering to this systematic protocol—accurate detection, thorough combing, appropriate pharmacology, environmental hygiene, and diligent follow‑up—infestations can be eradicated efficiently and safely.