How do lice appear and how can they be fought?

How do lice appear and how can they be fought? - briefly

Lice infestations start when adult females deposit eggs (nits) on hair close to the scalp, and the emerging nymphs feed on blood and spread through direct head contact. Effective control combines meticulous combing with a fine-toothed lice comb and the use of a regulated insecticidal shampoo or lotion, followed by a repeat treatment to eradicate any remaining nits.

How do lice appear and how can they be fought? - in detail

Lice infestations begin when adult female head‑lice deposit eggs (nits) on hair shafts close to the scalp. The eggs hatch in 7–10 days, releasing nymphs that resemble miniature adults. Nymphs undergo three molts over 9–12 days before reaching reproductive maturity. An adult female can lay 5–10 eggs per day, creating a rapid increase in population if untreated.

Transmission occurs primarily through direct head‑to‑head contact, which allows mobile lice to move from one scalp to another. Indirect spread via shared personal items—combs, hats, hair accessories, or bedding—can also occur when eggs or live insects remain on these objects. Crowded environments such as schools, camps, and childcare facilities elevate the risk because close contact is frequent.

Effective control strategies consist of three coordinated actions:

1. Mechanical removal

   • Use a fine‑toothed nit comb on wet, conditioned hair.
   • Comb from scalp outward, cleaning the comb after each pass.
   • Repeat every 2–3 days for at least two weeks to catch newly hatched nymphs.

2. Chemical treatment

   • Apply a pediculicide approved by health authorities (e.g., permethrin 1 % or dimethicone‑based lotions).
   • Follow label instructions precisely: leave the product on the scalp for the recommended time, then rinse.
   • Perform a second application 7–10 days later to eliminate any survivors.

3. Environmental decontamination

   • Wash clothing, towels, and pillowcases used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
   • Seal non‑washable items in a plastic bag for two weeks to starve any remaining lice or eggs.
   • Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats to remove stray nits.

Additional measures that enhance success include:

• Instructing all close contacts to undergo simultaneous treatment and combing.
• Avoiding the use of hair sprays, gels, or oily substances before applying topical agents, as they can impede absorption.
• Monitoring the scalp daily for live insects or viable eggs for at least three weeks after treatment completion.

When resistance to standard pediculicides is suspected, consult a healthcare professional for alternative prescriptions such as ivermectin or malathion. Prompt, systematic application of the above protocols eliminates infestations and prevents reinfestation.