How to harmlessly get rid of lice? - briefly
Use a fine‑toothed nit comb on wet, conditioned hair after applying a mild, OTC pediculicide such as 1 % permethrin, and wash all bedding and clothing in hot water. Repeat the combing and treatment seven days later to eradicate any newly hatched nits.
How to harmlessly get rid of lice? - in detail
Lice infestations can be resolved without chemicals that irritate the scalp or pose health risks. The process begins with accurate identification. Adult lice are 2–4 mm long, gray‑brown, and move quickly; nits appear as tiny, cemented eggs attached to hair shafts close to the scalp. Use a fine‑toothed comb on wet hair to confirm presence.
Manual removal
- Wet hair with a conditioner to loosen the glue.
- Comb from the scalp outward with a lice comb, wiping teeth after each pass.
- Place each captured specimen on a disposable surface for disposal.
- Repeat combing every 2–3 days for two weeks to capture newly hatched nits.
Non‑chemical treatments
- Apply a saturated solution of 1 % dimethicone; the oil coats lice, blocking respiration. Rinse after 30 minutes, then comb as above.
- Use a 10 % tea‑tree oil mixture diluted in a carrier oil; apply to scalp, leave for 30 minutes, then rinse.
- Heat treatment with a hair dryer on low heat for 10 minutes can kill lice, but avoid burns.
Over‑the‑counter products
- Permethrin 1 % lotion applied to dry hair, left for 10 minutes, then rinsed. Follow with a second application after 7 days to eliminate hatching nits.
- Pyrethrin‑based sprays may be used sparingly; monitor for skin irritation.
Prescription options
- Malathion 0.5 % lotion for resistant cases; apply to damp hair, leave for 8–12 hours, then wash.
- Ivermectin oral tablets (200 µg/kg) for severe infestations; dose repeated after one week.
Environmental control
- Wash bedding, clothing, and towels in hot water (≥60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in sealed plastic bags for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture; discard vacuum bags promptly.
Prevention
- Avoid sharing combs, hats, or hair accessories.
- Inspect new hairpieces before use.
- Perform weekly comb checks during outbreaks.
Combining thorough mechanical removal with a safe, low‑toxicity product, and maintaining strict hygiene, eliminates lice without causing harm to the host.