How to quickly eliminate lice at home? - briefly
Apply a 1 % permethrin or pyrethrin shampoo, leave it on the scalp for the recommended ten minutes, then rinse and comb out nits with a fine‑toothed nit comb. Wash all clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water and repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate any newly hatched lice.
How to quickly eliminate lice at home? - in detail
Effective removal of head‑lice infestations at home 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 directly to the scalp and hair. Follow the product label for concentration, contact time, and rinsing instructions. After the initial application, repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to target any newly hatched nits that survived the first round.
Next, eliminate viable lice and nits from the hair using a fine‑toothed comb. Work section by section, pulling the comb from scalp to tip after each pass. Rinse the comb in hot water after each use to prevent re‑infestation. Continue combing for at least 15 minutes per session, repeating every 2–3 days until no live insects are detected.
Simultaneously, decontaminate the environment:
- Wash all bedding, towels, and clothing worn within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks, the typical lifespan of a louse without a host.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
- Soak hair accessories (combs, brushes, hair ties) in hot water (≥ 50 °C) for at least 10 minutes.
Preventive actions reduce the risk of recurrence:
- Advise all household members to avoid sharing hats, hairbrushes, or pillows.
- Conduct weekly inspections of the scalp, especially after contact with schools or communal settings.
- Maintain hair length at a manageable level to facilitate combing, if feasible.
By adhering to this protocol—prompt chemical treatment, meticulous combing, comprehensive environmental sanitation, and ongoing vigilance—rapid eradication of lice in a residential setting can be achieved.