How to cure lice infestation? - briefly
Apply an FDA‑approved pediculicide to the scalp, follow the product’s timing instructions, rinse, and comb the hair with a fine‑toothed lice comb to remove live insects and nits. Wash clothing, bedding, and personal items in water above 130 °F (54 °C) or seal them in a plastic bag for two weeks to prevent re‑infestation.
How to cure lice infestation? - in detail
Lice infestations require prompt, systematic action to eliminate both the insects and their eggs. Begin with a thorough inspection of the scalp, focusing on the nape of the neck and behind the ears. Use a fine-toothed comb on wet hair; each pass should reveal live nits, which appear as tiny, oval, yellow‑brown structures attached to the hair shaft within a quarter inch of the scalp.
Immediate treatment options
- Over‑the‑counter pediculicides – products containing permethrin (1 %) or pyrethrin combined with piperonyl butoxide. Apply according to the label, leave for the specified duration, then rinse. A second application 7–10 days later targets newly hatched lice.
- Prescription agents – malathion (0.5 %), ivermectin (0.5 % lotion), or benzyl alcohol lotion. These are reserved for resistant cases or when OTC options fail.
- Physical removal – wet‑comb method using a metal or plastic nit comb. Process each section of hair for at least 10 minutes, repeating every 2–3 days for two weeks. Discard or soak combs after each use.
Non‑chemical alternatives
- Dimethicone‑based products – silicone oil suffocates lice without neurotoxic action. Apply liberally, cover with a plastic cap for 30 minutes, then wash out.
- Heat treatment – specialized devices deliver controlled heat (45–50 °C) to the scalp, killing lice within minutes. Follow manufacturer safety guidelines.
Environmental decontamination
- Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes.
- Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks to starve remaining insects.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and vehicle seats; discard vacuum bags immediately after use.
Follow‑up protocol
- Perform a nit comb inspection 24 hours after the first treatment; remove any residual nits.
- Conduct a second chemical application (if used) at the recommended interval, typically 7 days.
- Continue weekly comb checks for four weeks to confirm eradication.
Prevention measures
- Advise against sharing hats, hair accessories, or bedding.
- Encourage routine nit‑comb checks in schools or daycare settings.
- Maintain hair length short enough to facilitate inspection and treatment.
By integrating chemical or silicone agents, meticulous combing, and strict environmental hygiene, the infestation can be resolved within a fortnight, with minimal risk of recurrence.