How to get rid of lice at home permanently? - briefly
Apply a pediculicide shampoo and then comb the hair with a fine-toothed nit comb, washing all bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water and vacuuming the environment. Repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate any remaining eggs.
How to get rid of lice at home permanently? - in detail
Eliminating head‑lice infestations for good requires a systematic approach that combines immediate treatment, thorough cleaning of the environment, and ongoing prevention.
First, treat the affected person. Use a proven pediculicide such as a 1 % permethrin lotion or a dimethicone‑based product. Apply according to the package directions, leave on the scalp for the recommended time, then rinse thoroughly. After washing, comb the hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb while the hair is still damp. Work from the scalp outward, cleaning the comb after each pass with hot, soapy water. Repeat the combing session at 24‑hour intervals for three days to capture any newly hatched nymphs.
Second, address personal items. Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels used within the past 48 hours in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) and dry on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks, the typical lifespan of a louse egg, or subjected to a freezer at –4 °F (‑20 °C) for at least 24 hours.
Third, sanitize the living space. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and vehicle seats to remove stray lice or eggs. Follow vacuuming with immediate disposal of the bag or emptying of the canister into a sealed trash container. For non‑washable surfaces, apply a 0.5 % hydrogen peroxide spray, allow it to sit for ten minutes, then wipe clean.
Fourth, implement preventive measures. Avoid sharing combs, hats, hair accessories, or pillows. Encourage regular head checks, especially after school or group activities. Maintain short hair or tie long hair back tightly to reduce the likelihood of egg attachment.
Finally, monitor for recurrence. Conduct a thorough scalp inspection every three days for two weeks after treatment. If live lice are detected again, repeat the entire protocol, ensuring no step is missed. Persistent infestations may require consultation with a healthcare professional for alternative prescription‑strength treatments.