How to remove lice and their eggs? - briefly
Apply a pediculicide shampoo (e.g., 1 % permethrin) according to the label, then comb the hair with a fine‑tooth nit comb to extract live insects and eggs; repeat the process after 7–10 days to capture any newly hatched nits. Use hot laundering for bedding and clothing to prevent reinfestation.
How to remove lice and their eggs? - in detail
Effective elimination of head lice and their nits requires a systematic approach that combines mechanical removal, chemical treatment, and environmental control.
The initial step involves thorough wet combing. Apply a generous amount of conditioner to damp hair, then use a fine‑toothed nit comb, starting at the scalp and working toward the ends. Repeat the process every 2–3 days for two weeks, discarding the comb after each pass to prevent reinfestation.
Chemical agents serve as adjuncts. Over‑the‑counter shampoos containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin are applied according to package instructions, typically leaving the product on the scalp for 10 minutes before rinsing. For resistant cases, a prescription lotion with 0.5 % malathion or a dimethicone‑based product may be recommended. Follow‑up treatment after 7–10 days eliminates newly hatched lice that survived the first application.
Environmental decontamination reduces the risk of re‑exposure. Wash all bedding, clothing, and personal items used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Non‑washable items should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats to remove stray nits.
A concise protocol can be summarized:
- Wet combing with conditioner and nit comb, every 2–3 days for 14 days.
- Initial chemical treatment (permethrin or pyrethrin) per label directions.
- Second chemical application 7–10 days after the first.
- Launder or isolate all personal textiles and bedding.
- Vacuum and clean all surfaces that may harbor eggs.
Adherence to this regimen, performed consistently, results in complete eradication of head lice and their eggs.