How to get rid of lice the first time?

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How to get rid of lice the first time? - briefly
Apply a pediculicide shampoo, leave it on for the recommended time, then comb the hair with a fine-tooth nit comb while it is still damp; repeat the combing and a second treatment after seven days to eradicate any remaining eggs.

How to get rid of lice the first time? - in detail
Effective elimination of head‑lice infestations requires a systematic approach that addresses both the insects on the scalp and any viable eggs (nits) attached to hair shafts. The process begins with accurate identification; adult lice are about 2–4 mm long, brownish, and move quickly, while nits appear as tiny, oval, translucent or brownish specks firmly cemented to the hair close to the scalp.

Select a proven treatment

Over‑the‑counter pediculicides containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin with piperonyl butoxide. Apply according to label instructions, ensuring coverage from scalp to hair tips.
Prescription options such as 0.5 % malathion, 0.05 % ivermectin, or 0.001 % spinosad for resistant cases.
Non‑chemical methods: a fine‑toothed nit comb used on wet, conditioned hair; repeated combing every 2–3 days for two weeks can eradicate infestations without drugs.

Administer the product

Apply to damp hair, saturating the scalp and shaft.
Leave the solution on for the specified duration (usually 10 minutes).
Rinse thoroughly with warm water.

Mechanical removal

After rinsing, use a metal nit comb with 0.2 mm spacing.
Divide hair into sections; comb from scalp outward, wiping the comb blade after each pass.
Perform this step twice: immediately after treatment and 7–10 days later to capture newly hatched lice.

Environmental decontamination

Wash bedding, pillowcases, hats, and scarves in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
Seal non‑washable items in sealed plastic bags for two weeks.
Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard vacuum bags afterward.

Prevent reinfestation

Instruct all household members to avoid sharing combs, brushes, headphones, or caps.
Conduct a second treatment 7–9 days after the first, regardless of symptom resolution, to eliminate any survivors.

Monitoring

Examine the scalp daily for live lice or live nits.
Continue combing for at least two weeks; if live insects are observed after the second treatment, repeat the chosen pediculicide or switch to an alternative class.

Adhering to this sequence—accurate diagnosis, appropriate chemical or mechanical treatment, thorough combing, environmental sanitation, and diligent follow‑up—provides a single‑cycle solution that prevents recurrence and eliminates the infestation on the first attempt.