How to get rid of lice in an adult? - briefly
Apply an FDA‑approved pediculicide such as 1 % permethrin or a pyrethrin‑based lotion, following the label’s contact time, then comb out all nits with a fine‑tooth nit comb. Repeat the treatment after 7–10 days, wash clothing and bedding in hot water, and vacuum upholstery to prevent re‑infestation.
How to get rid of lice in an adult? - in detail
Head lice infestations in grown‑ups require prompt identification and systematic eradication to prevent prolonged discomfort and spread. Examine the scalp and hair under bright light, using a fine‑toothed comb to locate live insects and viable nits attached to hair shafts within a quarter‑inch of the scalp. Capture any specimens for confirmation if uncertainty exists.
Begin treatment by selecting an appropriate pediculicide. Over‑the‑counter products containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin are effective when applied to dry hair, left for the recommended duration (usually 10 minutes), then rinsed thoroughly. Follow with a second application after 7–10 days to target newly emerged nits. Prescription options such as 0.5 % malathion or oral ivermectin may be used for resistant cases; adhere strictly to dosage guidelines and contraindications.
Complement chemical treatment with mechanical removal:
- Dampen hair with conditioner to reduce slip.
- Divide hair into sections of 2–3 inches.
- Use a nit comb with 0.2 mm teeth, pulling from scalp outward.
- Repeat combing every 2–3 days for two weeks.
If chemical agents are unsuitable, consider non‑pharmaceutical measures:
- Apply a mixture of 20 % dimethicone lotion, leaving it on for 8 hours before rinsing; dimethicone suffocates lice without neurotoxic effects.
- Use a hot‑air dryer set to medium heat, maintaining a safe distance from the scalp, to desiccate insects for 10 minutes.
Sanitize personal items to avoid re‑infestation:
- Wash clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats, discarding vacuum bags afterward.
Monitor progress by re‑examining the scalp every 48 hours. Persistence of live lice after two treatment cycles warrants medical consultation for alternative therapies. Maintaining regular hair inspections and avoiding head‑to‑head contact reduces future occurrences.