How can you get rid of lice at home? - briefly
Use a pediculicide shampoo, then comb wet, conditioned hair with a fine-tooth nit comb while rinsing; simultaneously launder all bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water. Repeat the combing and washing after 7–10 days to remove any newly hatched nits.
How can you get rid of lice at home? - in detail
Eliminating head‑lice infestations without professional assistance requires a systematic approach that combines direct treatment of the scalp, thorough removal of eggs, and environmental decontamination.
First, confirm the presence of live insects or viable nits within ¼ inch of the scalp. Use a fine‑tooth lice comb on damp, conditioned hair to increase visibility and reduce breakage. Separate each section, starting at the nape and moving toward the crown, and wipe the comb on a white tissue after each pass to detect any captured lice.
Second, apply an approved pediculicide or a proven non‑chemical alternative. Over‑the‑counter options contain 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin; follow the label precisely regarding dosage, exposure time, and repeat application (usually 7–10 days later). For chemical‑free methods, soak hair in a solution of 10 % vinegar or 0.5 % tea‑tree oil diluted in water, leave for 30 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Both strategies require a second treatment to target newly hatched nymphs.
Third, conduct a meticulous nit‑removal session 24 hours after the initial treatment. Use the same fine‑tooth comb, working from the scalp outward, and discard each nit with tweezers to prevent re‑infestation. Repeat this combing process daily for at least one week.
Fourth, cleanse personal items and the living environment. Wash all bedding, towels, and clothing worn within the past 48 hours in water ≥ 60 °C or, if washing is not possible, seal them in a plastic bag for two weeks. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward. Non‑washable items (e.g., hats, hair accessories) should be sealed in airtight containers for the same duration.
Fifth, monitor for recurrence. Examine the scalp every two days for a total of three weeks. If live lice reappear after the second treatment, repeat the entire protocol. Persistent infestations may require prescription‑strength medication or consultation with a healthcare professional.
Finally, implement preventive measures: avoid sharing combs, hats, or pillows; encourage regular head checks in households with school‑age children; and maintain clean bedding cycles. Consistent adherence to these steps eliminates the infestation and reduces the likelihood of future outbreaks.