How do lice appear and how can they be eliminated at home? - briefly
Lice are transmitted by direct head‑to‑head contact or by sharing combs, hats, or bedding, where females deposit eggs that hatch in about a week. Home eradication relies on applying a pediculicide or vinegar rinse, then repeatedly combing with a fine‑toothed nit comb and laundering all fabrics in hot water.
How do lice appear and how can they be eliminated at home? - in detail
Lice infestations begin when adult females lay eggs (nits) on hair shafts close to the scalp. Eggs hatch in 7–10 days, releasing nymphs that mature into reproductive adults after another 9–12 days. Transmission occurs through direct head‑to‑head contact, shared combs, hats, pillows, or upholstered furniture. Crowded environments, inadequate hygiene, and warm, moist conditions accelerate the cycle.
Effective home eradication combines three actions:
- Physical removal – Use a fine‑toothed nit comb on damp, conditioned hair. Comb from scalp to ends, wiping the comb after each pass. Repeat every 2–3 days for two weeks to capture newly hatched nymphs.
- Topical treatment – Apply a pediculicide containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin, following the product label precisely. Leave the preparation on the scalp for the recommended duration, then rinse thoroughly. A second application after 7 days eliminates survivors.
- Environmental decontamination – Wash all washable items (clothing, bedding, towels) in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat. Seal non‑washable objects in sealed plastic bags for at least 48 hours to starve lice. Vacuum carpets, sofas, and car seats, discarding the vacuum bag or cleaning the canister afterward.
Preventive steps include:
- Avoid sharing personal items that contact hair.
- Keep hair tied back for children in group settings.
- Conduct weekly scalp inspections, especially after outbreaks in schools or camps.
By adhering to the outlined regimen—regular combing, correct use of approved topical agents, and thorough cleaning of the surrounding environment—infestations can be eliminated without professional intervention.