How can you remove lice from scalp hair? - briefly
Apply an FDA‑approved pediculicide to the wet hair, leave it on for the specified time, then rinse thoroughly and comb the hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb to remove all live insects and eggs; repeat the treatment after 7‑10 days to eliminate any newly hatched lice. Use a clean towel and wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water to prevent re‑infestation.
How can you remove lice from scalp hair? - in detail
Lice infestations require prompt, thorough action to eliminate the insects and their eggs. Begin with a visual inspection: separate the hair into small sections, using a fine-toothed nit comb to pull out any live parasites and nits attached to the shaft. Confirm the presence of nits by checking for the characteristic oval, brownish shells that are firmly glued within a quarter inch of the scalp.
Choose a treatment method that targets both adult lice and hatching nits. Options include:
- Over‑the‑counter insecticidal shampoos or lotions containing permethrin (1 %) or pyrethrin. Apply according to the product label, leave on the scalp for the recommended duration, then rinse thoroughly.
- Prescription‑strength agents such as malathion (0.5 %) or ivermectin lotion for resistant cases. Use under medical supervision.
- Dimethicone‑based products that suffocate insects without neurotoxic chemicals. Apply liberally, cover the hair with a plastic cap for 10‑15 minutes, then wash out.
- Non‑chemical approaches: a thorough wet‑comb routine with a metal nit comb every 2‑3 days for two weeks. Soak hair, apply a generous amount of conditioner to reduce slip, then comb from scalp outward, wiping the comb after each pass.
After the initial application, repeat the treatment after 7‑10 days to kill newly emerged lice that survived the first dose. Continue weekly combing for an additional two weeks to ensure all nits are removed.
Environmental decontamination reduces reinfestation risk. Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in plastic bags for two weeks or subjected to a 30‑minute exposure in a dryer on high heat. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats to remove stray hairs containing nits.
Preventive measures include:
- Avoiding head‑to‑head contact in crowded settings.
- Not sharing personal items such as combs, hats, or headphones.
- Conducting routine checks in schools or daycare environments, especially after known outbreaks.
By combining chemical or silicone‑based treatment, meticulous nit removal, timely repeat applications, and thorough cleaning of personal items, the infestation can be eradicated reliably.