How to get rid of lice in men? - briefly
Apply a permethrin‑based treatment to the scalp and hair, then remove remaining nits with a fine‑toothed lice comb. Wash all clothing, towels, and bedding in hot water to prevent re‑infestation.
How to get rid of lice in men? - in detail
Lice infestations in adult males require accurate identification, prompt chemical or mechanical treatment, and thorough environmental sanitation. The most common species affecting the scalp are Pediculus humanus capitis; body lice (Pediculus humanus corporis) may also appear on clothing and skin folds.
Diagnosis
- Examine scalp and hair close to the scalp for live insects and nits attached to hair shafts.
- Use a fine-toothed comb on wet hair to separate lice from debris.
- For body lice, inspect seams of clothing and skin folds for viable insects.
Pharmacologic options
- Permethrin 1 % lotion applied to dry hair, left for 10 minutes, then rinsed; repeat after 7–10 days to kill newly hatched lice.
- Pyrethrin‑piperonyl‑butoxide spray for body lice, applied to skin and clothing according to label instructions.
- Malathion 0.5 % lotion for resistant infestations; follow safety guidelines, avoid inhalation.
- Ivermectin oral tablets (200 µg/kg) for cases unresponsive to topical agents; prescribe only after medical evaluation.
Mechanical measures
- Wet‑comb technique: apply conditioner, comb hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb every 2–3 days for two weeks.
- Trim or shave hair to reduce habitat when immediate removal is required.
Environmental decontamination
- Wash all bedding, towels, and clothing used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Seal unwashable items in a sealed plastic bag for at least two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats; discard vacuum bags or clean canisters afterward.
- Disinfect combs, brushes, and hair accessories by soaking in hot water (≥50 °C) for 10 minutes.
Follow‑up
- Re‑examine scalp 7–10 days after initial treatment; repeat chemical application if live lice persist.
- Continue wet‑comb sessions for an additional week to ensure all nits are removed.
Prevention
- Avoid sharing hats, helmets, headphones, or hair accessories.
- Encourage regular personal hygiene and prompt laundering of clothing after exposure to crowded environments.
By integrating accurate detection, appropriate medication, rigorous combing, and strict cleaning of personal items, an adult male can eliminate a lice infestation and prevent recurrence.