How can you get rid of lice and nits using shampoos? - briefly
Apply a lice‑removing shampoo that contains a proven insecticide such as «permethrin» or «pyrethrin», following the product’s required contact time before rinsing. Repeat the application after 7–10 days to eradicate any newly hatched nits.
How can you get rid of lice and nits using shampoos? - in detail
Effective removal of head‑lice infestations relies on shampoos that contain insecticidal or ovicidal agents. Common active ingredients include permethrin (1 %), pyrethrins, malathion, benzyl alcohol (5 %), and dimethicone. Each agent attacks lice in a specific manner: permethrin disrupts nerve function, malathion inhibits cholinesterase, benzyl alcohol suffocates insects, and dimethicone coats and immobilises both lice and eggs.
Prior to application, hair should be washed with a regular shampoo to eliminate surface oils that could reduce product efficacy. Wet combing with a fine‑toothed nit comb assists in detaching a portion of live insects and eggs. The scalp must be thoroughly saturated with the treatment shampoo, ensuring that the solution reaches the hair shaft and all follicles. Recommended contact time ranges from 10 to 15 minutes, after which the hair is rinsed with lukewarm water. A second application, typically 7–10 days later, targets newly hatched lice that survived the initial exposure.
Key steps for optimal results:
- Apply the designated amount of shampoo to damp hair, distributing evenly from scalp to tips.
- Massage gently for the specified duration; avoid vigorous scrubbing that could irritate the scalp.
- Rinse completely; do not use conditioners or other hair products until the next wash.
- After the second treatment, perform a meticulous nit‑combing session to extract residual eggs.
- Repeat nit‑combing every 2–3 days for two weeks to ensure complete eradication.
Environmental control complements chemical treatment. Wash bedding, hats, scarves, and hair accessories in hot water (≥ 60 °C) or seal them in plastic bags for two weeks. Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture to remove fallen lice and nits. Non‑chemical options, such as steam cleaning, may be employed for additional safety.
Safety considerations include age restrictions: many permethrin‑based shampoos are unsuitable for children under two months, while dimethicone formulations are generally safe for infants. Conduct a patch test on a small skin area to detect potential allergic reactions. Follow label instructions precisely; over‑application can lead to scalp irritation or resistance development in lice populations. In cases of persistent infestation despite proper use, consult a healthcare professional for alternative prescription options.