How to eliminate lice and adult lice? - briefly
Apply a pediculicide shampoo or lotion approved for both nits and adult insects, then comb the hair with a fine-toothed nit comb to remove remaining eggs, and repeat the treatment after 7‑10 days; simultaneously launder bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water and vacuum upholstered surfaces to eradicate any residual infestation.
How to eliminate lice and adult lice? - in detail
Effective eradication of head‑lice infestations requires a systematic approach that targets both the living insects and their eggs. The process begins with accurate detection. Use a fine‑tooth comb on damp hair, dividing the scalp into sections and inspecting each strand for live lice and nits attached within ¼ inch of the scalp. Confirm the presence of at least three live insects before proceeding with treatment.
Chemical options
- Permethrin 1 % lotion: apply to dry hair, leave for 10 minutes, then rinse.
- Pyrethrin‑based shampoos: follow manufacturer’s timing, repeat after 7‑10 days.
- Benzyl alcohol 5 % lotion: apply for 10 minutes, rinse, repeat in one week.
Each product must be used according to label instructions, avoiding excess application that can cause irritation. Resistance to permethrin has been documented; in such cases, switch to a different active ingredient.
Non‑chemical options
- Wet combing: soak hair with conditioner, comb every 2‑3 days for two weeks using a metal nit comb.
- Dimethicone‑based lotions: coat hair, leave for 8‑12 hours, then wash out; effective against resistant lice.
- Essential‑oil mixtures (e.g., tea‑tree, lavender) have limited evidence; they may be used adjunctively but should not replace proven treatments.
Environmental control
- Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels used in the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in sealed plastic bags for two weeks to starve any surviving stages.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats; discard vacuum bags or clean canisters immediately.
- Avoid sharing combs, hats, or headphones until the infestation is cleared.
Follow‑up
- Perform a second inspection 7‑10 days after the initial treatment; retreat if any live lice are found.
- Continue weekly nit combing for an additional two weeks to catch late‑hatching nymphs.
- Document treatment dates and products used to inform any future medical consultation.
Adhering to this protocol—accurate diagnosis, appropriate therapeutic choice, thorough environmental sanitation, and diligent re‑examination—eliminates both adult insects and their eggs, preventing recurrence.