How to eliminate lice in an adult? - briefly
Apply a 1 % permethrin shampoo or a 0.5 % malathion lotion, leave it on for the recommended time, then rinse thoroughly; repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to kill any newly hatched nits. Comb the hair with a fine‑tooth nit comb after each wash, wash all clothing and bedding in hot water, and vacuum the environment to prevent re‑infestation.
How to eliminate lice in an adult? - in detail
Eliminating head‑lice infestations in grown‑up individuals requires a systematic approach that combines immediate eradication, environmental control, and follow‑up monitoring.
The first step is to select an effective pediculicide. Over‑the‑counter options containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin are widely used; for resistant cases, a prescription‑only product with 0.05 % malathion or 0.1 % spinosad may be necessary. Apply the medication according to the label: saturate dry hair, leave it on for the prescribed duration (usually 10 minutes for permethrin, 8 hours for malathion), then rinse thoroughly. Avoid using heat styling tools until the treatment is complete, as high temperatures can reduce efficacy.
After treatment, remove all viable nits with a fine‑toothed comb. Work in sections, pulling the comb through the hair from scalp to tip every few centimeters. Repeat the combing process at least twice daily for seven days to capture any newly hatched lice that escaped the initial chemical exposure.
Environmental decontamination complements chemical control. Wash all bedding, towels, and clothing worn within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on a high‑heat setting. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in plastic bags for two weeks or placed in a freezer at –20 °C for at least 24 hours. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats to remove stray hairs that may harbor eggs.
A second chemical treatment is recommended 7–10 days after the first application to eliminate any survivors. Follow the same protocol, ensuring no overlap with the first dose to prevent irritation.
Monitor the situation for at least four weeks. Examine the scalp every two to three days, looking for live insects or viable nits within 1 mm of the hair shaft. If infestation persists despite repeated treatments, consult a healthcare professional for alternative therapies such as oral ivermectin.
Key actions summarized:
- Choose an appropriate pediculicide (permethrin, pyrethrin, malathion, spinosad).
- Apply precisely as directed; rinse after the specified time.
- Comb out nits with a fine‑toothed lice comb, twice daily for a week.
- Launder or isolate all personal items; vacuum surroundings.
- Perform a second treatment 7–10 days later.
- Conduct regular scalp checks for four weeks; seek medical advice if needed.
Adhering to this protocol maximizes the likelihood of complete eradication and prevents reinfestation.