How can you remove lice after treatment?

How can you remove lice after treatment? - briefly

After applying a pediculicide, comb the hair daily with a fine-toothed nit comb for 7‑10 days, cleaning the comb after each pass, and wash or heat‑treat all bedding, clothing, and personal items (≥130 °F) or seal them in a plastic bag for two weeks.

How can you remove lice after treatment? - in detail

After the medication has been applied, the next phase is to eliminate any remaining insects and prevent re‑infestation. Begin by removing all live and dead parasites from the hair using a fine‑toothed nit comb. Comb the scalp from the roots to the tips, rinsing the comb after each pass. Perform this process at least once daily for ten days, because eggs may hatch after the initial treatment.

Clean personal belongings and the surrounding environment:

  • Wash clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥60 °C) and dry on high heat for a minimum of 30 minutes.
  • Seal non‑washable items (hats, scarves, hair accessories) in sealed plastic bags for two weeks to starve any surviving nits.
  • Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
  • Soak combs, brushes, and hair clips in hot water (≥50 °C) for ten minutes, then dry.

Inspect all household members, including infants and adults, for signs of infestation. If any person shows evidence of lice, repeat the combing routine and consider a second course of medication according to the product’s instructions, typically after seven to ten days. Document findings to track progress and ensure that no individual is missed.

Finally, establish preventive measures: avoid sharing personal items, keep hair tied back in communal settings, and conduct routine checks during the first two weeks after treatment. Consistent application of these steps eliminates residual insects and minimizes the risk of recurrence.