How should I treat hair for lice and nits? - briefly
Apply a pediculicide shampoo, rinse, then comb the damp hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb, removing each louse and nit; repeat the treatment and combing after 7–10 days to eliminate any newly hatched insects.
How should I treat hair for lice and nits? - in detail
Treat hair that is infested with lice and their eggs requires a systematic approach: removal of live insects, eradication of eggs, and prevention of re‑infestation.
Begin by confirming the presence of lice. Use a fine‑toothed lice comb on wet, conditioned hair. Separate sections, run the comb from scalp to tip, and wipe the teeth after each pass. Any live insects or attached eggs should be placed on a white surface for identification.
Apply an appropriate pediculicide. Over‑the‑counter products containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin are effective for most cases. Follow label instructions precisely: apply to dry hair, saturate strands, leave for the recommended duration, then rinse thoroughly. For resistant infestations, prescription agents such as 0.5 % malathion, 0.05 % benzyl alcohol, or oral ivermectin may be required; these should be administered under medical supervision.
After the chemical treatment, perform a second combing session 7–10 days later. This timing coincides with the hatching period of any surviving eggs, ensuring that newly emerged lice are removed before they can reproduce. Use a fine‑toothed nit comb, repeat the process every 2–3 days for a total of three sessions.
Simultaneously clean personal items that may harbor lice or nits. Wash clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 130 °F/54 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats to eliminate stray insects.
Prevent future outbreaks by avoiding head‑to‑head contact, not sharing combs, hats, or hair accessories, and performing routine checks in environments where infestations are common (e.g., schools, camps). Maintain a regular schedule of combing with a nit comb, especially after known exposure.
By combining chemical treatment, diligent mechanical removal, thorough environmental sanitation, and preventive habits, the infestation can be eliminated and recurrence minimized.