How can one get rid of lice in one go? - briefly
Use a licensed pediculicide—e.g., 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % malathion—applied to dry hair according to the product’s directions, then remove all nits with a fine‑toothed lice comb. Repeat the process after 7–10 days to eradicate any newly hatched lice.
How can one get rid of lice in one go? - in detail
Effective eradication of head lice can be achieved with a single, well‑planned intervention that combines chemical treatment, mechanical removal, and environmental decontamination.
First, confirm the infestation by examining the scalp under bright light. Look for live insects and viable nits attached within ¼ inch of the hair shaft. If any are found, proceed immediately.
Apply an approved pediculicide that contains either 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin, following the product label precisely. Use a fine‑toothed nit comb to distribute the lotion evenly from the roots to the tips, ensuring complete coverage. Leave the solution on the hair for the recommended duration (usually 10 minutes), then rinse thoroughly with warm water.
While the chemical remains active, use a metal nit comb to remove all visible nits and adult lice. Work in sections, combing each strand from scalp to tip, wiping the comb on a white tissue after each pass. Repeat this mechanical step at least twice, spaced 7–10 days apart, to capture any newly hatched lice that survived the initial exposure.
Simultaneously, decontaminate personal items to prevent re‑infestation:
- Wash all bedding, towels, and clothing worn within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F/54 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Seal non‑washable items (e.g., hats, hair accessories) in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
- Avoid sharing combs, brushes, hats, or headphones until the treatment is complete.
If resistance to over‑the‑counter agents is suspected, a prescription‑only medication such as 0.5 % malathion or oral ivermectin may be used under medical supervision. These alternatives follow the same protocol of thorough application, nit combing, and environmental cleaning.
By executing chemical treatment, systematic nit removal, and comprehensive sanitation in a coordinated manner, the lice population can be eliminated in a single comprehensive effort, eliminating the need for repeated cycles.