How can you get rid of lice on your own? - briefly
Apply a medicated lice shampoo or lotion, then comb hair thoroughly with a fine-toothed nit comb, removing all nits and adult insects. Repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate any newly hatched lice.
How can you get rid of lice on your own? - in detail
Lice infestations are common among children and adults. Detecting live insects or viable eggs (nits) on hair shafts confirms the problem. Immediate action prevents spreading.
Preparation
- Gather a fine-toothed comb, regular shampoo, conditioner, a plastic bag, and a clean towel.
- Choose a well‑lit area and secure a mirror for the back of the head.
- Wash hands thoroughly before and after treatment.
Mechanical removal
- Wet hair with warm water; apply a generous amount of conditioner to loosen the glue that holds nits to the shaft.
- Comb through small sections from scalp outward, using the fine-toothed comb.
- After each pass, wipe the comb on a paper towel, then place collected lice and nits in a sealed bag for disposal.
- Repeat the combing process every 2–3 days for two weeks to catch newly hatched insects.
Chemical options
- Use an over‑the‑counter pediculicide containing permethrin (1 %) or pyrethrin. Follow the label precisely: apply to dry hair, leave for the recommended time, then rinse.
- If resistance is suspected, a second‑generation product with dimethicone may be effective; it suffocates lice without neurotoxic action.
- After chemical treatment, repeat mechanical removal to eliminate dead insects and residual eggs.
Environmental control
- Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in a plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately.
Follow‑up
- Re‑inspect the scalp 7 days after the initial treatment. Any remaining nits indicate incomplete removal; repeat the combing routine.
- Conduct a final check at day 14 to ensure no new lice have emerged.
Consistent application of these steps eliminates the infestation without professional intervention.