How to quickly get rid of lice on the head at home? - briefly
Use a 1 % permethrin shampoo, apply to wet hair, leave for ten minutes, then rinse; repeat the treatment after seven days. Follow each application with a fine‑toothed lice comb to extract nits and ensure complete eradication.
How to quickly get rid of lice on the head at home? - in detail
Rapid elimination of head‑lice infestations at home requires a systematic approach that combines direct treatment, thorough cleaning of personal items, and a repeat schedule to break the life cycle.
The first step is confirmation of infestation. Adult lice and nymphs are visible on the scalp, especially behind the ears and at the nape. Nits (eggs) appear as tiny, oval, cemented shells attached to hair shafts within 1 cm of the scalp.
Immediate treatment options:
- Wet‑comb method – apply a generous amount of conditioner to damp hair, then run a fine‑toothed lice comb from scalp to tip. Remove each louse or nit before it falls off. Perform the combing every 2–3 hours for the first day, then twice daily for the next three days.
- Over‑the‑counter pediculicide – use a product containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin, following label instructions precisely. Apply to dry hair, leave for the recommended time, then rinse. Avoid use on children under two years unless directed by a physician.
- Dimethicone‑based lotion – a silicone‑oil formulation that suffocates lice without neurotoxic action. Apply to dry hair, cover with a shower cap for 10 minutes, then wash out. Suitable for all ages.
Environmental decontamination:
- Wash all bedding, towels, and clothing used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Place non‑washable items (hats, plush toys) in sealed plastic bags for at least two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats to remove stray nits.
Repeat schedule:
- Perform a second chemical or silicone treatment 7–10 days after the first, targeting newly hatched lice that survived the initial application.
- Continue wet‑comb sessions for another three days after the second treatment to ensure complete removal.
Preventive measures:
- Discourage head‑to‑head contact during play.
- Keep personal combs, brushes, and hats separate.
- Conduct regular scalp inspections in households with previous infestations.
Following this protocol eliminates active lice within a week and prevents re‑infestation without professional intervention.