How can one get rid of lice on the head at home? - briefly
Use a 1 % «permethrin» shampoo, apply for 10 minutes, rinse, then comb hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb; repeat the process after 7–10 days. Wash all bedding and clothing in hot water to prevent re‑infestation.
How can one get rid of lice on the head at home? - in detail
Eliminate head lice at home by following a systematic approach that combines mechanical removal, topical agents, and thorough environmental cleaning.
Identify infestation through visual inspection of the scalp and hair. Look for live insects, viable nits attached close to the scalp, and excessive scratching. Use a fine‑toothed comb on damp hair to improve visibility and capture.
Apply a proven topical treatment. Options include:
- 1 % permethrin lotion applied to dry hair, left for 10 minutes, then rinsed.
- 0.5 % malathion solution applied for 8–12 hours, followed by thorough washing.
- Dimethicone‑based products that suffocate lice without chemical resistance.
After treatment, comb the hair with a nit comb at least twice daily for 7 days. Remove each louse and nits, wiping the comb with a disposable wipe after each pass.
Sanitize personal items and the environment:
- Wash bedding, towels, and clothing in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for 2 weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard vacuum bags immediately.
- Soak hairbrushes and combs in hot water (≥ 50 °C) for 10 minutes, then dry.
Repeat the entire process after 7 days to eradicate any newly hatched lice that survived the first treatment. Continue monitoring for an additional 2 weeks to ensure complete clearance. Prevent reinfestation by avoiding head-to-head contact, not sharing personal hair accessories, and conducting regular scalp checks in environments where lice are common.