How can one quickly get rid of lice at home in one day? - briefly
Use a 1 % permethrin (or equivalent) lice shampoo, leave it on the scalp for the recommended time, then comb the hair with a fine‑toothed lice comb while wet; repeat the combing after 8–10 hours. Wash all bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water (≥ 130 °F) or seal them in a plastic bag for 48 hours to eliminate any surviving nits.
How can one quickly get rid of lice at home in one day? - in detail
Eliminating head‑lice infestations within a single day at home requires a systematic approach that combines immediate treatment of the scalp, thorough removal of nits, and environmental decontamination.
Begin with a medicated shampoo or lotion that contains 1 % permethrin, 0.5 % malathion, or 0.05 % spinosad. Apply according to the product label, ensuring the solution reaches the scalp and covers the entire hair length. Leave the preparation on for the recommended duration (usually 10 – 15 minutes) before rinsing. If the infestation is severe, repeat the application after 7 days to target newly hatched lice.
After the chemical treatment, use a fine‑toothed nit comb (spacing ≤ 0.2 mm). Comb the hair in sections, starting at the scalp and moving outward. Remove each dead insect and egg, wiping the comb on a white paper towel after every pass. Continue until no live lice or viable nits are detected. This process typically requires 15–20 minutes per person.
For immediate relief, apply a hot oil treatment: warm a small amount of olive or coconut oil to body temperature, saturate the hair, cover with a shower cap, and leave for 30 minutes. The oil suffocates remaining lice and eases combing. Follow with the nit comb.
Environmental control is essential to prevent re‑infestation. Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels used within the past 48 hours in water ≥ 60 °C; tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes. Seal non‑washable items (e.g., hats, stuffed toys) in airtight plastic bags for two weeks. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats thoroughly, discarding the vacuum bag or emptying the canister immediately afterward.
If chemical products are unavailable, a 20 % benzyl alcohol solution can serve as an alternative. Apply to dry hair, cover for 10 minutes, then rinse and comb. This method kills lice but does not affect eggs, so a second treatment after 7 days remains necessary.
Monitor the scalp daily for the next 48 hours. Any sign of live lice warrants an immediate repeat of the treatment cycle. Consistent application of the steps above typically eliminates the infestation within one day, provided that all hair and surrounding items are addressed promptly.