How to kill lice on people? - briefly
Effective treatment combines a pediculicide shampoo or lotion applied to the scalp for the recommended duration, followed by thorough combing with a fine-toothed lice comb to remove live insects and nits; repeat the process after 7‑10 days to eliminate any newly hatched lice. Additional measures include washing bedding and clothing in hot water or sealing them in a plastic bag for two weeks.
How to kill lice on people? - in detail
Effective eradication of human head‑lice requires a systematic approach that combines immediate treatment, thorough cleaning of personal items, and preventive measures.
The first step is to apply an approved pediculicide. Options include:
- Permethrin 1 % lotion – applied to dry hair, left for 10 minutes, then rinsed.
- Pyrethrin‑based shampoo – used similarly, with a repeat application after 7–10 days.
- Malathion 0.5 % lotion – reserved for resistant infestations; applied for 8–12 hours before washing.
- Spinosad 0.9 % suspension – applied to damp hair, left for 10 minutes, then rinsed.
Follow manufacturer instructions precisely; incomplete exposure reduces efficacy and promotes resistance.
After chemical treatment, remove nits mechanically:
- Comb wet hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb, starting at the scalp and moving toward the tips.
- Repeat combing every 2–3 days for two weeks.
- Dispose of each combed-out egg by flushing or sealing in a plastic bag.
Environmental decontamination reduces re‑infestation:
- Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a plastic bag for at least two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
- Avoid sharing combs, hats, pillows, or headphones.
For individuals allergic to standard pediculicides, alternative options include:
- Dimethicone‑based lotions – occlusive agents that suffocate lice without neurotoxic action.
- Benzyl alcohol 5 % lotion – kills lice by asphyxiation; requires a 10‑minute exposure and may cause scalp irritation.
- Ivermectin oral tablets – prescribed for severe cases; dosage is weight‑based and requires medical supervision.
Monitoring for treatment failure involves inspecting the scalp 7 days after the initial application. Persistent live lice or viable nits indicate the need for a second‑line product or combination therapy.
Prevention focuses on early detection and hygiene practices:
- Conduct weekly scalp examinations, especially in school‑aged children.
- Encourage regular hair washing and avoidance of head‑to‑head contact during play.
- Educate caregivers about the importance of not sharing personal items that contact the scalp.
By adhering to this protocol—prompt chemical treatment, diligent nit removal, thorough environmental cleaning, and consistent follow‑up—infestations can be eliminated efficiently and recurrence minimized.