How to get rid of lice in one go? - briefly
Apply a 1 % permethrin shampoo or lotion as directed, then comb out every nit with a fine‑toothed nit comb. Repeat the treatment after seven to ten days to eradicate any newly hatched lice.
How to get rid of lice in one go? - in detail
Eliminating head‑lice infestations with a single, effective intervention requires a systematic approach that combines mechanical removal, appropriate chemical treatment, and environmental control.
First, isolate the affected individual to prevent immediate re‑infestation. Use a fine‑toothed lice comb on thoroughly wet hair; start at the scalp and pull the comb through each section, wiping the teeth after every pass. Repeat the combing process for at least 30 minutes, covering the entire head. This step physically extracts live insects and nits that are attached to hair shafts.
Second, apply a proven pediculicide that contains either 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % malathion, following the manufacturer’s instructions precisely. Ensure the product saturates the scalp and hair for the recommended duration, typically 10–15 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water. For resistant cases, a prescription‑only ivermectin lotion or a benzyl alcohol‑based formula may be necessary; these options should be used under medical supervision.
Third, repeat the entire combing and chemical treatment after 7–10 days. This interval corresponds to the life cycle of lice, allowing any newly hatched nymphs that survived the first application to be eradicated before they mature and lay eggs.
Fourth, decontaminate personal items and the immediate environment. Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used within the past 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks or exposed to a temperature of at least 50 °C for 30 minutes. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and vehicle seats to remove stray hairs that may contain nits.
Finally, monitor the situation daily for at least three weeks. Inspect the scalp each morning and evening; any residual nits can be removed with the lice comb. If live insects reappear after the second treatment, repeat the entire protocol, ensuring strict adherence to timing and dosage.
By integrating meticulous mechanical removal, a single, correctly applied pediculicide, a timed second treatment, and thorough environmental sanitation, a complete eradication can be achieved without the need for multiple, prolonged interventions.