How to fight lice? - briefly
Effective treatment combines immediate eradication of the insects and measures to prevent re‑infestation. Apply a 1 % permethrin shampoo or lotion as directed, follow with thorough combing using a fine‑toothed lice comb, wash bedding and clothing in hot water, and repeat the process after 7–10 days.
How to fight lice? - in detail
Combating head‑lice infestations requires a systematic approach that addresses the insects on the scalp, their eggs, and the surrounding environment.
First, confirm the presence of live insects or nits. Use a fine‑toothed comb on wet, conditioned hair, inspecting the comb after each pass. Live lice move quickly; nits appear as oval, yellowish or brownish attachments firmly glued to the hair shaft within 1 cm of the scalp.
Second, apply a proven topical agent. Options include:
- 1 % permethrin lotion, applied to dry hair, left for 10 minutes, then rinsed; repeat after 7–10 days to target newly hatched lice.
- 0.5 % malathion liquid, applied to dry hair, left for 8 hours, then washed out; suitable for resistant populations.
- Dimethicone‑based silicone oil, which suffocates insects without neurotoxic chemicals; applied to damp hair, covered for 30 minutes, then rinsed.
Follow product instructions precisely, avoiding over‑application that can cause scalp irritation.
Third, remove surviving insects and eggs mechanically. After treatment, comb the hair with a nit‑comb at 4‑hour intervals for 48 hours. Use a clean, fine‑toothed comb, working from the scalp outward, and wipe the comb after each pass. Repeat the process for at least three days to ensure complete eradication.
Fourth, decontaminate personal items and surroundings:
- Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items (hats, hair accessories) in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks, the typical lifespan of a louse.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
- Avoid sharing combs, brushes, hats, or headphones until the infestation is resolved.
Fifth, implement preventive measures to reduce recurrence:
- Encourage regular head inspections, especially in school settings.
- Maintain short haircuts where feasible, as longer hair provides more habitat for insects.
- Store personal headgear separately and label items to prevent accidental sharing.
- Educate caregivers and teachers on early detection signs and proper response protocols.
By integrating chemical treatment, diligent mechanical removal, thorough environmental sanitation, and preventive habits, the infestation can be eliminated and future outbreaks minimized.