How to remove lice from a person's head? - briefly
Apply a pediculicide or a thick conditioner, then comb the hair thoroughly with a fine‑toothed lice comb, removing every louse and nit; repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate any newly hatched insects.
How to remove lice from a person's head? - in detail
Lice infestations require prompt, thorough action. Begin with a visual inspection to confirm the presence of live insects and nits attached to hair shafts near the scalp. Use a fine‑toothed lice comb under bright light; separate sections of hair and move the comb from scalp outward, wiping each pass on a white tissue to detect any movement.
Treatment options
- Over‑the‑counter pediculicides: Apply a permethrin‑based lotion or shampoo according to the product label, ensuring coverage of the entire scalp and hair length. Leave the preparation on for the specified time, then rinse thoroughly. A second application after seven to ten days eliminates newly hatched nits.
- Prescription agents: For resistant cases, a dermatologist may prescribe a 1 % ivermectin lotion or a malathion solution. Follow medical instructions precisely, as these products have higher potency.
- Mechanical removal: Wet the hair with a conditioner to loosen nits, then comb with a metal lice comb. Perform this process every 2–3 days for two weeks, removing each visible egg and insect.
- Alternative remedies: Apply dimethicone‑based silicone oil, which suffocates insects without neurotoxic chemicals. Use a saturating amount, cover the scalp with a shower cap for 30 minutes, then rinse and comb out debris.
Environmental decontamination
- Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in airtight bags for two weeks to starve any surviving lice.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
Follow‑up
- Re‑examine the scalp 24 hours after the initial treatment; repeat combing to catch any missed nits.
- Conduct a second inspection at day 7–10; retreat if live insects persist.
- Continue weekly checks for four weeks to ensure complete eradication.
Consistent application of chemical or mechanical methods, combined with thorough cleaning of personal items, eliminates the infestation and prevents recurrence.