How to effectively get rid of lice in a person? - briefly
Apply a 1% permethrin shampoo or 0.5% malathion lotion, follow the label’s timing, rinse, and then comb the hair with a fine‑tooth nit comb to remove live insects and nits; repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eradicate any newly hatched lice.
How to effectively get rid of lice in a person? - in detail
Effective lice eradication requires a systematic approach that addresses both the infestation on the host and the surrounding environment.
First, confirm the presence of live insects or viable nits. Examine the scalp under bright light, parting hair in sections of 1 cm. Live lice move quickly; nits appear as oval, firmly attached to the hair shaft, within 1 cm of the scalp.
Second, select an appropriate treatment. Options include:
- Over‑the‑counter pediculicides containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin with piperonyl‑butoxide. Apply to dry hair, leave for the recommended time (usually 10 minutes), then rinse.
- Prescription neurotoxic agents such as 0.5 % malathion or 0.05 % spinosad for resistant cases. Follow exact dosing instructions; avoid use on children under the specified age.
- Physical removal using a fine‑toothed nit comb on wet, conditioned hair. Perform combing every 2–3 days for two weeks, ensuring each pass covers the entire scalp.
Third, implement thorough mechanical cleaning:
- Wash all recently worn clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in sealed plastic bags for at least 48 hours to deprive lice of a host.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats to remove stray nits.
Fourth, schedule a follow‑up examination 7–10 days after initial treatment. If live lice persist, repeat the chosen pediculicide according to label guidelines (typically a second application after 7 days) or switch to an alternative class to counter resistance.
Finally, educate all contacts about avoiding head‑to‑head contact, not sharing personal items such as combs or hats, and conducting regular scalp checks during outbreaks. Consistent application of these measures eliminates the infestation and prevents re‑colonization.