How can you remove lice? - briefly
Use a medicated shampoo or lotion containing permethrin or pyrethrin, apply according to instructions, then comb the hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb to extract nits. Repeat the treatment after 7‑10 days to eradicate any newly hatched lice.
How can you remove lice? - in detail
Lice infestations require a systematic approach that combines chemical treatment, mechanical removal, and environmental control.
Effective chemical agents include permethrin 1 % lotion, pyrethrin‑based shampoos, and dimethicone creams. Apply the product according to the manufacturer’s instructions, leaving it on the scalp for the recommended duration before rinsing. Repeat the application after seven days to target newly hatched nymphs.
Mechanical removal relies on a fine‑toothed comb. After the chemical step, wet the hair and run the comb from the scalp to the ends, cleaning each tooth with a tissue after every pass. Perform this process at least twice daily for ten consecutive days.
Environmental measures prevent re‑infestation. Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat. Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks. Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture thoroughly.
A concise protocol:
- Apply a 1 % permethrin lotion, leave for 10 minutes, rinse.
- Comb wet hair with a nit comb, section by section, cleaning comb after each stroke.
- Repeat combing every 12 hours for ten days.
- Re‑apply the lotion after seven days.
- Launder all personal items in hot water; dry on high heat.
- Seal untouched items for fourteen days.
- Vacuum living areas and dispose of vacuum bag or clean canister.
Monitoring continues for four weeks. Examine the scalp every three days; any remaining live insects indicate the need for an additional treatment cycle.
When chemical products are contraindicated, such as in cases of allergy or pregnancy, a dimethicone‑based cream provides a safe alternative, acting by suffocating the parasites without toxic effects.
Adhering to the outlined steps eliminates the infestation efficiently and reduces the likelihood of recurrence.