How can you get rid of lice from the head? - briefly
Use an FDA‑approved pediculicide shampoo or lotion, apply it for the recommended duration, rinse, and remove remaining nits with a fine‑tooth comb; repeat the treatment after 7–10 days and launder bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water.
How can you get rid of lice from the head? - in detail
Eliminating head‑lice infestations requires a systematic approach that combines chemical or physical treatment, thorough cleaning of personal items, and preventive measures.
First, choose an effective lice‑killing product. Options include:
- Pediculicides – shampoos, lotions, or creams containing permethrin (1 %) or pyrethrin. Apply according to the label, leave on the scalp for the recommended time, then rinse thoroughly.
- Dimethicone‑based treatments – silicone‑oil liquids that coat and suffocate insects. They are useful when resistance to traditional insecticides is suspected.
- Spinosad – a newer agent that targets nervous pathways of lice; applied as a lotion and left on the hair for 10 minutes before washing.
After treatment, remove dead and live insects with a fine‑toothed nit comb. Comb the hair in sections, starting at the scalp and moving outward, wiping the comb on a white towel after each pass. Repeat the combing process every 2–3 days for two weeks to catch newly hatched nymphs.
Second, decontaminate the environment.
- Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels used within the past 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items (e.g., hats, hair accessories) in a sealed plastic bag for at least two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats to remove stray lice or eggs.
Third, implement preventive steps to avoid reinfestation.
- Discourage head‑to‑head contact during play or sports.
- Do not share combs, brushes, hats, or headphones.
- Inspect family members weekly for at least a month after treatment; treat any new cases immediately.
If chemical treatments fail after two attempts, consult a healthcare professional for prescription‑strength options such as malathion or ivermectin. In rare cases, oral ivermectin may be prescribed under medical supervision.
Consistent application of the chosen treatment, diligent removal of nits, thorough cleaning of personal items, and strict avoidance of direct hair contact constitute a comprehensive strategy for eradicating head lice.