How to get rid of lice and their eggs? - briefly
Apply a pediculicide shampoo or a natural solution like diluted vinegar, then comb out nits with a fine‑tooth nit comb on damp hair. Repeat the combing every 2–3 days for two weeks to eliminate all remaining eggs.
How to get rid of lice and their eggs? - in detail
Effective elimination of head‑lice infestations requires a systematic approach that targets both the insects and their attached eggs. The process begins with a thorough inspection. Use a fine‑toothed comb on damp hair, section by section, to locate live lice and nits attached close to the scalp. Remove any visible insects with the comb and set them aside for disposal.
Next, select a treatment method. Options include:
- Over‑the‑counter pediculicides (e.g., permethrin 1 % lotion, pyrethrin‑based sprays). Apply according to the product label, ensuring coverage from scalp to hair tips. Repeat the application after 7–10 days to kill newly hatched lice that survived the first dose.
- Prescription agents (e.g., malathion 0.5 %, ivermectin lotion). Reserve these for resistant cases or when OTC products fail. Follow medical guidance precisely.
- Physical removal (wet‑comb technique). After washing hair with a regular shampoo, apply a conditioner to loosen nits, then comb with a nit‑comb every 2–3 days for two weeks. This method eliminates the need for chemicals and works for all ages.
- Alternative non‑chemical options such as dimethicone‑based lotions, which coat and suffocate lice, or heated air devices that blow warm air through the hair shaft to destroy eggs.
Regardless of the chosen treatment, incorporate these supporting steps:
- Launder bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Items that cannot be washed should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and vehicle seats to remove stray lice or nits that may have fallen off.
- Avoid sharing personal items such as combs, hats, headphones, and pillows until the infestation is cleared.
- Conduct follow‑up checks every 2–3 days for two weeks. Use a nit‑comb to confirm the absence of live insects and nits within 1 mm of the scalp.
If symptoms persist after two treatment cycles, consult a healthcare professional to rule out resistance or secondary skin conditions. Proper adherence to the regimen, combined with environmental decontamination, ensures complete eradication of both the parasites and their eggs.