How can you get rid of head lice at home?

How can you get rid of head lice at home? - briefly

Apply an over‑the‑counter lice treatment (e.g., permethrin 1% or pyrethrin) to the scalp, follow the label’s duration, then remove nits with a fine‑toothed comb. Wash all clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water and repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate any newly hatched lice.

How can you get rid of head lice at home? - in detail

Eliminating head‑lice infestations can be achieved without professional intervention when a systematic approach is followed.

First, confirm the presence of live insects and their eggs (nits) by parting the hair close to the scalp and inspecting each section with a fine‑tooth comb. Remove any visible nits with tweezers before treatment begins.

Core treatment protocol

1. Wet combing

   • Apply a generous amount of conditioner to damp hair.
   • Use a metal nit‑comb, moving from scalp to tip in 1‑cm increments.
   • After each pass, wipe the comb on a white paper towel to verify removal; repeat until no live lice or nits appear for three consecutive sessions.
   • Perform combing every 3–4 days for two weeks.

2. Topical agents (optional)

   • Choose a pediculicide labeled for over‑the‑counter use (e.g., permethrin 1 %).
   • Follow label instructions precisely: apply to dry hair, leave for the recommended duration, then rinse.
   • Use a second application 7–10 days later to target newly hatched lice.

3. Environmental sanitation

   • 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 sealed plastic bags for two weeks.
   • Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard vacuum bags immediately.

4. Preventive measures

   • Advise against sharing combs, hats, or hair accessories.
   • Encourage regular head checks, especially after group activities.

Follow‑up monitoring

• Conduct a visual inspection 24 hours after each combing session.
• Continue weekly checks for at least four weeks to ensure complete eradication.
• If live lice persist after two full treatment cycles, consider consulting a healthcare professional for prescription‑strength options.

By adhering to this regimen—combining thorough mechanical removal, optional approved topical treatment, and rigorous environmental control—complete resolution of a head‑lice problem is achievable within a fortnight.