How to poison lice at home?

How to poison lice at home? - briefly

Apply an EPA‑approved pediculicide shampoo or lotion directly to the scalp, following the product’s dosage and contact‑time instructions, then rinse thoroughly and repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to target any newly hatched nits. Combine with fine‑tooth combing of damp hair to remove remaining eggs and wash all bedding and clothing in hot water.

How to poison lice at home? - in detail

Eliminating head‑lice infestations with chemical agents can be accomplished without professional services. The process requires selecting an effective pesticide, preparing the environment, applying the product safely, and confirming eradication.

Choose a lice‑killing preparation that contains permethrin (1 %), pyrethrin, or carbaryl. Verify that the label indicates suitability for human use and that the concentration complies with local regulations. For households with children, prefer products formulated specifically for pediatric application to reduce the risk of irritation.

Prepare the treatment area by washing bedding, clothing, and towels in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and drying on high heat. Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture, then discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister. Seal the cleaned items in plastic bags for at least 48 hours to prevent re‑infestation.

Apply the pesticide according to the manufacturer’s instructions:

  1. Part hair into sections.
  2. Apply the solution evenly, ensuring full coverage of the scalp and hair shafts.
  3. Leave the product on for the prescribed duration (usually 10–15 minutes).
  4. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.

After treatment, repeat the application after 7–10 days to kill newly hatched lice. During the interval, comb the hair with a fine‑toothed lice comb every 2–3 days, removing dead insects and nits. Dispose of combed material in sealed bags.

Safety measures:

  • Wear disposable gloves while handling the chemical.
  • Keep the product away from eyes, mouth, and broken skin.
  • Store the pesticide out of reach of children and pets.
  • If irritation or allergic reaction occurs, rinse the area with water and seek medical advice.

Monitoring:

  • Inspect the scalp daily for live lice or viable nits.
  • Continue combing for at least three weeks after the final application.
  • If live insects persist, consider an alternative agent with a different active ingredient to avoid resistance.

By following these steps, a household can effectively eradicate lice using toxic formulations while minimizing health hazards.