How did you get rid of lice? - briefly
I used a 1 % permethrin rinse, left it on for ten minutes, then removed all nits with a fine‑toothed comb, repeating the treatment after seven days.
How did you get rid of lice? - in detail
Eliminating head‑lice infestations requires a systematic approach that combines chemical or non‑chemical treatments, thorough cleaning of personal items, and preventive measures.
Begin with the affected individual. Apply a pediculicide approved by health authorities—permethrin 1 % lotion, pyrethrin‑based spray, or dimethicone 4 % cream—following the product’s instructions for dosage, application time, and repeat treatment. After the recommended exposure period, rinse hair thoroughly with warm water. Use a fine‑toothed nit comb on damp hair, starting at the scalp and moving toward the ends; repeat combing every 2–3 days for at least two weeks to catch newly hatched nymphs.
If chemical options are unsuitable, opt for a physical method. Saturate hair with a silicone‑based lotion (e.g., dimethicone) and cover with a plastic cap for 8–12 hours. Remove the product, then comb with a nit comb as described above. This technique suffocates both adults and eggs without toxic residues.
Simultaneously address the environment. Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels used within the past 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in airtight plastic bags for two weeks or placed in a freezer at –20 °C for at least 24 hours. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
Disinfect personal grooming tools—combs, brushes, hair accessories—by soaking them in hot, soapy water for 10 minutes, then rinsing and drying. Do not share these items during the treatment period.
Finally, implement preventive steps. Advise regular hair inspections, especially in school or daycare settings. Encourage avoidance of head‑to‑head contact and the sharing of hats, hair ties, or headphones. Maintain a routine of weekly nit‑comb checks for at least one month after the last confirmed removal.
By adhering to this comprehensive protocol—appropriate topical treatment, meticulous combing, environmental decontamination, and ongoing vigilance—head‑lice infestations can be eradicated efficiently and sustainably.