How to get rid of lice once and for all? - briefly
Apply an FDA‑approved pediculicide, then comb wet hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb until no nits remain, and repeat the treatment after 7–10 days. Launder or heat‑treat all clothing, bedding, and personal items, and vacuum the surroundings to eliminate stray eggs.
How to get rid of lice once and for all? - in detail
Eliminating head‑lice infestations requires a systematic approach that combines immediate treatment, thorough cleaning of the environment, and preventive measures to avoid reinfestation.
The first step is to apply an approved pediculicide directly to the scalp and hair according to the product instructions. Permethrin 1 % or pyrethrin‑based lotions are the most common over‑the‑counter options; prescription‑only agents such as malathion 0.5 % or ivermectin lotion are reserved for resistant cases. Apply the medication to dry hair, leave it for the recommended period (usually 10 minutes), then rinse thoroughly.
After the chemical treatment, remove live insects and nits mechanically. Use a fine‑toothed lice comb on wet, conditioned hair. Start at the scalp, pull the comb through each section, and wipe the teeth after each pass. Repeat the combing process for at least 15 minutes per session. Perform a second combing session 7–10 days later to catch any newly hatched lice that survived the initial treatment.
Environmental decontamination reduces the risk of re‑infestation.
- Wash all recently worn clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 130 °F/54 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes.
- Seal non‑washable items (e.g., stuffed toys) in a sealed plastic bag for 2 weeks, the maximum lifespan of a louse off a host.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and vehicle seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
Preventive strategies focus on limiting head‑to‑head contact and regular monitoring.
- Encourage children to keep hair tied back and avoid sharing combs, hats, or hair accessories.
- Conduct weekly scalp inspections, especially after sleepovers or group activities.
- Educate caregivers and teachers about early detection signs and the importance of prompt treatment.
If the infestation persists after two treatment cycles, consult a healthcare professional for alternative therapies, such as oral ivermectin or a combination regimen. Continuous adherence to the outlined steps typically results in complete eradication.