How can you eliminate lice and nits from hair? - briefly
Apply an FDA‑approved lice treatment (shampoo, lotion, or spray) and, while the product remains active, comb the hair with a fine‑tooth nit comb to remove live insects and eggs, repeating the combing after 7–10 days. Wash all clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water or seal them in a plastic bag for two weeks to eliminate any surviving nits.
How can you eliminate lice and nits from hair? - in detail
Effective eradication of head‑lice and their eggs requires a coordinated approach that combines direct removal, chemical treatment, and environmental hygiene.
Manual removal remains the most reliable first step. Wet the hair with a generous amount of conditioner, then use a fine‑tooth nit comb, moving from the scalp outward in 1‑inch sections. Repeat the combing process every 2–3 days for two weeks, discarding each pass of the comb in a sealed bag.
Chemical agents provide rapid knock‑down of live insects. Over‑the‑counter products contain permethrin (1 %), pyrethrins with piperonyl‑butoxide, or dimethicone. Apply according to label directions, ensuring full coverage of the scalp and hair shafts; leave the formulation for the prescribed time before rinsing. Resistance to permethrin has been reported, so confirming effectiveness after 24 hours is advisable.
Prescription‑strength options are available when resistance or treatment failure occurs. Oral ivermectin (200 µg/kg) administered in a single dose, with a repeat dose after 7 days, eliminates both adults and immature stages. Topical malathion (0.5 %) requires a 12‑hour exposure before washing. Both treatments demand medical supervision and adherence to contraindication guidelines.
Environmental decontamination reduces reinfestation risk.
- Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for at least two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately.
Follow‑up inspection is essential. Examine the scalp 7–10 days after the initial treatment; any remaining live lice or viable eggs require a second round of the chosen method. Continue weekly checks for an additional two weeks to confirm complete clearance.
Combining meticulous combing, appropriate medicament use, and thorough cleaning of personal items yields a high probability of total elimination.