How should lice and nits be treated? - briefly
Effective control requires a pediculicide shampoo or lotion applied according to label directions, followed by thorough combing with a fine‑toothed nit comb to remove eggs. Repeat treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched lice.
How should lice and nits be treated? - in detail
Effective management of head lice and their eggs requires a systematic approach that combines chemical, mechanical, and environmental measures. The following sections outline each component in detail.
Chemical agents are the primary tool for eliminating live insects. Over‑the‑counter products contain either permethrin (1 %) or pyrethrin combined with piperonyl butoxide; prescription options include malathion (0.5 %), benzyl alcohol lotion (5 %), ivermectin (0.5 % cream), or spinosad (0.9 %). Application instructions must be followed precisely: apply to dry hair, leave the product on for the recommended duration (usually 10 minutes for permethrin, 8 hours for malathion), then rinse thoroughly. Repeat treatment after 7–10 days to target any newly hatched lice that survived the first application.
Mechanical removal addresses the resilient egg stage. Use a fine‑toothed nit comb, preferably metal, on damp, conditioned hair. Section hair and comb from scalp outward, wiping the comb after each pass. Perform this process daily for at least 10 days, then twice weekly for an additional two weeks to ensure all viable nits are removed. Inspect hair under bright light; any remaining oval‑shaped, firmly attached eggs require repeat combing.
Environmental decontamination reduces the risk of reinfestation. Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks or placed in a freezer at –18 °C for 24 hours. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and vehicle seats; discard vacuum bags immediately. Avoid sharing personal items such as combs, hats, or headphones.
Monitoring and follow‑up ensure treatment success. After the second chemical application, examine the scalp for live lice and live nits at 24‑hour intervals for one week. Absence of movement confirms eradication; persistent activity warrants consultation with a healthcare professional for alternative regimens or resistance testing.
«Effective treatment combines properly applied insecticides, diligent nit removal, and thorough environmental cleaning to achieve complete eradication».