How can lice be removed using over‑the‑counter products? - briefly
Apply an FDA‑approved pediculicide such as 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin shampoo or lotion according to the package instructions, then remove remaining nits with a fine‑toothed lice comb. Repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate any newly hatched lice.
How can lice be removed using over‑the‑counter products? - in detail
Over‑the‑counter treatments for head‑lice infestations fall into two categories: chemical pediculicides and physical‑action products.
Chemical pediculicides
- Permethrin 1 % lotion or shampoo: apply to dry hair, massage into scalp, leave 10 minutes, rinse. Repeat in 7–10 days to kill newly hatched nymphs.
- Pyrethrin‑piperonyl‑butoxide spray: follow label instructions; exposure time typically 10 minutes. Use a second application after 7 days.
- Benzyl alcohol 5 % lotion: apply to dry hair, leave 10 minutes, rinse. Requires a repeat treatment after 7 days.
- Ivermectin 0.5 % lotion: single application, no repeat needed for most cases.
Physical‑action products
- Dimethicone 4 % lotion or spray: coats insects, suffocates them. Apply to dry hair, leave 10 minutes, rinse. Repeat in 7 days if live lice are observed.
- Silicone‑based oils (e.g., mineral oil, specialized lice‑removal lotions): saturate the exoskeleton, causing dehydration. Apply, cover with a shower cap for 30 minutes, then comb out.
Procedure for effective removal
- Preparation – Separate affected hair from unaffected strands, wash hair with ordinary shampoo, towel‑dry.
- Application – Apply the chosen product according to the package directions, ensuring full coverage of scalp and hair shafts.
- Contact time – Observe the minimum exposure period; exceeding it does not increase efficacy and may increase irritation.
- Rinse and dry – Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water, towel‑dry.
- Mechanical removal – Use a fine‑toothed nit comb on wet hair, moving from scalp outward in 4‑inch sections. Repeat combing every 2–3 days for a week.
- Second treatment – Perform a repeat application 7–10 days after the first, targeting any newly emerged lice that survived the initial cycle.
- Environmental control – Wash bedding, hats, and clothing used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥60 °C) or seal non‑washable items in a plastic bag for two weeks. Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture to remove stray nits.
Safety considerations
- Permethrin and pyrethrins are contraindicated for children under 2 months; benzyl alcohol is not recommended for infants under 6 weeks.
- Skin irritation, itching, or redness may occur; discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.
- Resistance to permethrin and pyrethrins is documented; dimethicone or ivermectin provides an alternative when treatment failure is observed.
By selecting an appropriate non‑prescription formulation, adhering strictly to the label‑specified exposure times, and incorporating systematic combing and environmental decontamination, most infestations can be eradicated without professional intervention.