How to get rid of lice and nits? - briefly
Apply an FDA‑approved lice treatment to the hair, follow the recommended exposure time, then remove all eggs with a fine‑toothed nit comb; wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water and repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate any newly hatched insects.
How to get rid of lice and nits? - in detail
Lice infestations require a systematic approach that combines immediate eradication, thorough cleaning of personal items, and ongoing monitoring.
First, confirm the presence of live insects and their oval-shaped eggs attached to hair shafts close to the scalp. Use a fine-toothed comb on damp hair to separate strands and expose any hidden specimens.
Next, select an appropriate treatment method:
- Over‑the‑counter pediculicides – shampoos or lotions containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin. Apply according to the product label, leave for the recommended duration, then rinse thoroughly. A second application 7–10 days later eliminates newly hatched nymphs.
- Prescription options – malathion 0.5 % lotion, ivermectin oral tablets, or benzyl alcohol lotion for resistant cases. These require a healthcare professional’s authorization and adherence to dosage instructions.
- Manual removal – after chemical treatment, comb hair with a metal nit comb at 2‑mm intervals, starting at the scalp and moving toward the ends. Perform this process every 2‑3 days for two weeks, ensuring all eggs are extracted.
- Alternative agents – dimethicone‑based products suffocate insects without neurotoxic effects. Apply liberally, cover with a plastic cap for 10 minutes, then rinse.
Simultaneously, decontaminate the environment:
- 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 in sealed plastic bags for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard vacuum bags immediately.
Prevent re‑infestation by:
- Advising all close contacts to undergo simultaneous treatment.
- Avoiding head‑to‑head contact and sharing of combs, hats, or headphones.
- Conducting weekly inspections for at least one month after treatment.
If live insects persist after two treatment cycles, consult a medical professional for alternative regimens or resistance testing. Continuous documentation of treatment dates and outcomes supports effective resolution and reduces the likelihood of recurrence.