How can you wash a head to get rid of lice? - briefly
Apply a medicated shampoo (e.g., permethrin or pyrethrin) to wet hair, leave it on for the specified period, rinse, and then comb out nits with a fine-toothed lice comb. Repeat the process after 7–10 days to eradicate any newly hatched insects.
How can you wash a head to get rid of lice? - in detail
Washing the scalp to eradicate lice requires a systematic approach that combines chemical treatment, mechanical removal, and environmental sanitation.
Begin with a proven anti‑lice shampoo that contains either 1 % permethrin, 0.5 % malathion, or a dimethicone‑based formula. Apply the product to saturated hair, ensuring the scalp and all hair shafts are fully covered. Follow the manufacturer’s timing instructions precisely; most preparations recommend a contact period of 10–15 minutes before rinsing.
After the prescribed exposure, rinse thoroughly with warm water. While the hair remains wet, use a fine‑toothed nit comb (spacing ≤0.2 mm) to detangle and extract live insects and nits. Start at the scalp, pulling the comb through each section from root to tip. Wipe the comb blade with a disposable tissue after each pass to prevent re‑contamination. Repeat the combing process for the entire head, then repeat the entire wash‑comb cycle at least once more within 7–10 days to target newly hatched lice.
To enhance efficacy, consider these supplementary measures:
- Pre‑wash preparation: Separate hair into manageable sections using clips; this improves product coverage and combing accuracy.
- Heat treatment: After washing, apply a high‑heat dryer (≥50 °C) to the hair for several minutes; lice cannot survive prolonged exposure to temperatures above 45 °C.
- Post‑wash sanitation: Soak combs, brushes, and hair accessories in hot water (≥60 °C) for 10 minutes or immerse them in a diluted bleach solution (1 % sodium hypochlorite) for 5 minutes.
- Environmental control: Wash bedding, clothing, and towels in hot water and tumble dry on high heat. Seal non‑washable items in sealed plastic bags for two weeks to starve any remaining parasites. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and vehicle seats; discard vacuum bags immediately.
Maintain the treatment schedule for a full two‑week period, checking the scalp daily for signs of live insects. If any lice persist after the second cycle, repeat the entire protocol with a different class of insecticide to avoid resistance. Document each step to ensure consistency and to facilitate follow‑up if professional medical assistance becomes necessary.