How to eliminate lice in adults? - briefly
Apply a 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin shampoo, follow the label timing, and then remove any remaining nits with a fine‑tooth comb; repeat the treatment after 7–10 days. Wash all clothing, bedding, and personal items in water ≥ 130 °F (54 °C) and vacuum the environment to prevent reinfestation.
How to eliminate lice in adults? - in detail
Head lice infestations in grown‑up individuals require a systematic approach that combines effective medication, thorough personal hygiene, and environmental decontamination.
First, confirm the presence of live insects or viable eggs (nits) attached to hair shafts close to the scalp. Use a fine‑toothed lice comb on wet, conditioned hair; move the comb from the scalp outward, inspecting each pass for movement or intact nits.
Second, apply an approved pediculicide. Options include:
- Permethrin 1 % lotion – apply to dry hair, leave for 10 minutes, then rinse.
- Pyrethrin‑based spray – follow label instructions; repeat after 7 days to target newly hatched lice.
- Spinosad 0.9 % suspension – single application, effective against resistant strains.
- Ivermectin oral tablets – prescribed for resistant cases; dosage 200 µg/kg, repeat after 7 days.
If resistance is suspected, a combination of a topical agent with a second‑line prescription (e.g., malathion 0.5 % or benzyl alcohol lotion) may be necessary. Always read product warnings and consider allergy history.
Third, remove residual nits mechanically. After the chemical treatment, comb the hair at least twice daily for a week using a fine‑toothed lice comb, cleaning the comb with hot water after each pass. This step eliminates eggs that survived the insecticide.
Fourth, decontaminate personal items and surroundings:
- Wash clothing, bed linens, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items (hats, scarves) in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
- Avoid sharing combs, hair accessories, or headwear until the infestation is cleared.
Fifth, monitor for reinfestation. Perform a weekly comb inspection for four weeks after treatment. If live lice reappear, repeat the pediculicide regimen according to the product’s recommended interval, typically 7 days.
Finally, implement preventive measures: maintain regular hair washing, discourage head‑to‑head contact in crowded settings, and educate close contacts about early detection and treatment. Consistent application of these steps eliminates adult infestations and reduces the likelihood of recurrence.