How can you get rid of lice if they are present? - briefly
Use an FDA‑approved lice treatment (shampoo, lotion, or mousse) according to the package directions, then comb the hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb to remove live insects and eggs; repeat the application after 7–10 days. Wash all bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water or seal them in plastic bags for two weeks to prevent re‑infestation.
How can you get rid of lice if they are present? - in detail
Eliminating an active lice infestation requires a coordinated approach that addresses both the insects on the host and the surrounding environment.
First, confirm the presence of live nits or adult insects by examining the scalp under good lighting. Use a fine‑toothed lice comb on wet hair, starting at the crown and moving outward. Any detected specimens should be removed immediately with the comb, wiping the teeth on a disposable tissue after each pass.
Second, apply an approved pediculicide. Options include:
- 1% permethrin lotion or shampoo, applied to dry hair, left for 10 minutes, then rinsed.
- 0.5% malathion solution, suitable for resistant cases, applied to dry hair, left for 8–12 minutes, then washed out.
- Dimethicone‑based products, which suffocate lice without neurotoxic action, applied to damp hair, left for 30 minutes, then rinsed.
- Prescription oral ivermectin, reserved for severe or refractory infestations.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions precisely; over‑application does not increase efficacy and may increase irritation. After the initial treatment, repeat the same product 7–10 days later to target newly hatched nymphs that survived the first cycle.
Third, remove residual nits manually. After the chemical treatment, comb the hair again with a fine‑toothed lice comb at least three times over a 24‑hour period. Each pass should be performed on small sections, and the comb should be cleaned after each stroke.
Fourth, decontaminate personal items and the living area:
- Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items (hats, scarves, hair accessories) in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
- Soak hairbrushes, combs, and hair accessories in hot, soapy water for at least 10 minutes.
Fifth, educate all household members about avoiding reinfestation. Advise against sharing hats, combs, pillows, or hair care products. Encourage regular scalp inspections for at least three weeks following treatment.
Finally, monitor for treatment failure. Persistent itching, visible live lice, or viable nits after the second application warrant a repeat of the entire protocol or consultation with a healthcare professional for alternative therapy.