How to clean the head of lice at home? - briefly
Use a fine‑toothed comb on wet, conditioned hair after applying a pediculicide shampoo, then repeat the combing every 7‑10 days for two cycles; simultaneously launder bedding and personal items in hot water or seal them in a plastic bag for two weeks. This combined approach eliminates the insects and prevents reinfestation.
How to clean the head of lice at home? - in detail
Removing head lice without professional assistance requires a systematic approach that addresses live insects, eggs, and the surrounding environment. The process consists of three phases: immediate treatment, environmental decontamination, and post‑treatment monitoring.
The first phase targets the infestation on the scalp. Essential steps include:
- Wet‑combing: Apply a generous amount of conditioner to damp hair, divide the scalp into sections, and run a fine‑toothed nit comb from the roots to the tips. After each pass, wipe the comb on a white tissue to verify removal of insects and nits. Repeat the procedure every 2–3 days for two weeks.
- Chemical shampoos: Use a pediculicide shampoo containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin, following the manufacturer’s instructions precisely. Leave the lather on the scalp for the recommended duration, then rinse thoroughly. Avoid re‑application within 24 hours to prevent resistance.
- Alternative agents: Apply dimethicone‑based lotions, tea‑tree oil (0.5 % concentration), or a 10 % vinegar solution, ensuring full coverage of hair shafts. Allow the product to remain for at least 30 minutes before rinsing.
The second phase eliminates lice and eggs from personal items and the living space:
- Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in water at a minimum of 60 °C, followed by a high‑heat dryer cycle.
- Seal non‑washable items (e.g., hats, wigs) in airtight plastic bags for two weeks, the typical lifespan of a louse egg.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and vehicle seats thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately.
- Soak combs, brushes, and hair accessories in hot water (≥ 50 °C) for at least 10 minutes or immerse them in a 0.5 % permethrin solution.
The final phase focuses on verification and prevention:
- Conduct a visual inspection of the scalp and hair 7 days after the initial treatment, using a magnifying lens if necessary. Confirm the absence of live insects and empty nits.
- Repeat the wet‑combing process on day 10 to capture any newly hatched lice that escaped the first round.
- Educate all household members about avoiding head‑to‑head contact and sharing personal hair items, reducing the risk of re‑infestation.
Adhering to this comprehensive regimen eliminates the infestation, minimizes the chance of recurrence, and restores a lice‑free environment.