How can lice be removed from adults? - briefly
Apply a pediculicide shampoo or lotion containing permethrin or pyrethrin, leave it on for the recommended time, then rinse and use a fine‑toothed nit comb to remove all nymphs and eggs. Follow with washing of clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water and repeat treatment in 7–10 days to eliminate any survivors.
How can lice be removed from adults? - in detail
Lice infestations in adults require a systematic approach that combines chemical treatment, mechanical removal, and environmental control.
Effective chemical agents contain either pyrethrin‑based compounds or the neurotoxic insecticide permethrin, typically at a 1 % concentration. Application follows the product instructions: apply to dry hair, leave for the recommended time (usually 10 minutes), then rinse thoroughly. For resistant populations, a prescription‑only agent such as malathion (0.5 %) or ivermectin lotion (0.5 %) may be necessary; these products demand precise dosing and strict adherence to safety guidelines.
Mechanical removal supplements chemicals and addresses surviving nits. Use a fine‑toothed nit comb made of metal or high‑strength plastic. After applying the chosen pediculicide, section the hair and comb from scalp to tip, wiping the comb after each pass. Continue combing for at least 30 minutes, then repeat the process every 2–3 days for a total of three sessions to ensure all newly hatched lice are eliminated.
Environmental decontamination reduces re‑infestation risk. Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks, the typical survival period of lice off the host. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats to remove detached nits; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
Follow‑up examination is essential. Inspect the scalp 7 days after the final treatment; absence of live lice confirms success. If live insects are observed, repeat the entire protocol with a different chemical class to avoid resistance buildup.
Special considerations include pregnancy, breastfeeding, and known allergies. In such cases, prioritize manual removal and consult a healthcare professional before using neurotoxic agents.
Overall, successful eradication relies on accurate diagnosis, correct product selection, diligent combing, thorough cleaning of personal items, and vigilant post‑treatment monitoring.