How can the head be treated for lice at home? - briefly
Apply a lice‑killing shampoo or a diluted vinegar solution to wet hair, then comb through with a fine‑toothed nit comb every 2–3 days for two weeks. Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water and vacuum the environment to eliminate remaining eggs.
How can the head be treated for lice at home? - in detail
Treating a scalp lice infestation at home requires a systematic approach that combines direct removal, chemical or natural agents, and environmental decontamination.
Begin with preparation. Choose a fine‑toothed lice comb, a wide‑tooth comb, a conditioner or oily substance (e.g., olive oil), and a suitable treatment product. Ensure the hair is clean, but avoid using shampoo immediately before combing, as excess soap can reduce the grip of the comb.
Direct removal
- Apply a generous amount of conditioner or oil to damp hair; let it sit for 5–10 minutes.
- Divide the hair into sections and use the fine‑toothed comb, starting at the scalp and pulling toward the ends.
- After each pass, wipe the comb on a white tissue to confirm the presence of nits; discard any captured insects.
- Repeat the process for every section, then repeat the entire combing session after 24 hours to catch newly hatched lice.
Chemical or natural agents
- Over‑the‑counter pediculicides containing permethrin (1 %) or pyrethrin are applied according to the label, left for the specified time, then rinsed.
- For a chemical‑free option, apply a mixture of 1 part tea tree oil to 10 parts carrier oil, leave for 30 minutes, then comb as described.
- Follow the product’s repeat‑treatment interval (usually 7–10 days) to eliminate any surviving eggs.
Environmental control
- Wash all bedding, towels, and clothing worn within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
Follow‑up
- Perform a second combing session 7 days after the initial treatment.
- Inspect the scalp daily for the next two weeks; repeat the entire protocol if live lice are observed.
Adhering to these steps eliminates the infestation without professional intervention, provided each action is executed precisely and consistently.