How to remove lice? - briefly
Apply a pediculicide shampoo and comb the hair with a fine-toothed nit comb while it is wet, repeating the process every 7–10 days until no nits remain. Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water and vacuum the living area to eliminate any remaining eggs.
How to remove lice? - in detail
Removing lice requires a systematic approach that combines treatment of the hair, thorough cleaning of personal items, and follow‑up checks.
Begin with a medicated shampoo or lotion containing a proven insecticide such as permethrin 1 % or dimethicone. Apply according to the product label, ensuring the solution reaches the scalp and covers the entire head. Leave it on for the recommended time, then rinse thoroughly. For resistant infestations, a second‑generation neurotoxin (e.g., malathion 0.5 %) may be prescribed, but only under medical supervision.
After the chemical step, use a fine‑toothed nit comb on wet, conditioned hair. Work from the scalp outward, combing each section several times. Rinse the comb in hot water after each pass to kill captured insects. Repeat the combing process every 2–3 days for two weeks to capture newly hatched nymphs.
If chemical options are unsuitable, a non‑chemical regimen can be employed. Saturate the hair with a mixture of olive oil or coconut oil, cover with a shower cap for 30 minutes, then comb out nymphs with a nit comb. This method suffocates the parasites but typically requires more frequent sessions.
Simultaneously, decontaminate the environment:
- Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels used within the past 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items (e.g., stuffed toys) in airtight bags for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
Monitor the situation by inspecting the scalp every few days. Live lice or viable nits (attached within 1 mm of the scalp) indicate the need for another treatment round.
Document the dates of each intervention and any adverse reactions. If infestations persist after two complete treatment cycles, seek professional medical evaluation for alternative prescriptions or underlying conditions.