How can you get rid of lice? - briefly
Effective removal requires a pediculicide shampoo applied to wet hair, followed by meticulous combing with a fine-toothed lice comb and washing all bedding and clothing in hot water. Repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eradicate newly hatched nits.
How can you get rid of lice? - in detail
Lice are obligate ectoparasites that attach to hair shafts and feed on blood. Effective eradication requires simultaneous treatment of the host and the surrounding environment.
Mechanical removal begins with a fine‑toothed nit comb. Wet the hair with a conditioner, section it, and pass the comb from scalp to tip in short strokes. Repeat the process every 2–3 days for two weeks to capture newly hatched nits. Regular washing of hair with hot water (minimum 130 °F) assists in loosening insects, but does not replace combing.
Chemical agents are available over the counter and by prescription. First‑line products contain « permethrin » 1 % or « pyrethrin ». Apply to dry hair, leave for the recommended duration, then rinse. Resistance to these compounds has been documented; in such cases, a prescription formulation of « spinosad » 0.9 % or oral ivermectin (200 µg/kg) may be indicated. Follow manufacturer instructions precisely to minimize toxicity.
Alternative options include silicone‑based lotions such as dimethicone 4 % and mineral oil preparations. Apply a thick layer to dry hair, cover with a shower cap for 8–12 hours, then comb out debris. Heat therapy, using a hair dryer set to high temperature for 10 minutes, kills lice but must be performed cautiously to avoid scalp burns.
Environmental decontamination reduces reinfestation risk. Machine‑wash bedding, clothing, and towels in hot water (≥130 °F) and tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in plastic bags for two weeks. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard vacuum bags immediately after use.
A follow‑up assessment is essential. Examine the scalp 7–10 days after the initial treatment; retreat if live lice are detected. Continue weekly inspections for four weeks to confirm complete elimination.