How to properly get rid of lice and nits? - briefly
Apply a pediculicide to damp hair, then comb with a fine-toothed nit comb, repeating the combing every 7–10 days to eliminate any emerging lice. Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water or seal them in plastic bags for two weeks to prevent re‑infestation.
How to properly get rid of lice and nits? - in detail
Effective elimination of head‑lice infestations requires a systematic approach that addresses both adult insects and their eggs. Begin by confirming the presence of lice through a thorough visual inspection using a fine‑toothed comb on wet hair. Separate each section of hair, pulling it taut, and examine the comb for live insects or oval, white nits attached within 1 cm of the scalp.
Next, select an appropriate treatment. Over‑the‑counter pediculicides containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin are the most common first‑line options. Apply the product according to the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring complete coverage from scalp to hair tips. Leave the preparation on for the recommended duration, typically 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
After the initial application, repeat the treatment after seven to ten days to target any newly hatched lice that survived the first round. In parallel, perform a meticulous combing session every 2–3 days for two weeks. Use a fine‑toothed nit comb, working from the scalp outward, and wipe the comb after each pass to remove captured insects.
Environmental decontamination reduces reinfestation risk. Wash all 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 to remove stray nits.
If chemical treatments fail or cause irritation, consider alternative methods: a thorough wet‑comb regimen without insecticide, suffocation techniques such as applying a petroleum‑jelly mixture to the scalp for several hours, or prescription‑strength agents like malathion (0.5 %) or ivermectin lotion (0.5 %). Consult a healthcare professional before using prescription products.
Finally, educate all household members about transmission pathways—direct head contact and sharing of personal items—and enforce preventive measures: avoid sharing hats, hairbrushes, and headphones. Monitoring should continue for at least four weeks, with weekly checks to confirm eradication.