How to remove lice from an adult's head? - briefly
Use a permethrin‑ or pyrethrin‑based lice treatment according to the label, allowing the product to remain on the scalp for the specified duration, then rinse thoroughly. Follow with a fine‑toothed nit comb to extract nymphs and eggs, and repeat the process after 7–10 days to eliminate any survivors.
How to remove lice from an adult's head? - in detail
Detecting an infestation requires a fine-toothed lice comb or a magnifying lens. Separate the hair into sections, pull each section taut, and run the comb from scalp to tip. Examine the comb for live insects or nits attached within 1 mm of the hair shaft; these indicate active infestation.
Choose a treatment based on efficacy and safety:
- Chemical pediculicides – permethrin 1 % lotion or pyrethrin‑based products applied to dry hair, left for the manufacturer‑specified time (usually 10 minutes), then rinsed. Repeat after 7–10 days to kill newly hatched nymphs.
- Prescription options – malathion 0.5 % or spinosad 0.9 % lotion, applied to damp hair for 10 minutes, then washed off. These agents overcome resistance to over‑the‑counter formulas.
- Non‑chemical methods – a wet‑comb technique using a fine‑toothed comb after saturating hair with conditioner. Perform combing every 2–3 hours for 48 hours, then daily for a week. This method removes both insects and eggs without medication.
After applying any topical agent, rinse thoroughly and dry hair completely. Follow the product label for the required interval before a second application; most regimens require a repeat dose to eradicate hatchlings.
Environmental decontamination reduces re‑infestation risk:
- Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items (hats, scarves) in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
- Avoid sharing personal items such as combs, brushes, hats, or headphones.
Monitor the scalp for three weeks. If live lice or viable nits persist after two treatment cycles, consult a healthcare professional for alternative prescription therapy or evaluation for resistant strains.
Maintain preventive habits: keep hair tied back, limit head‑to‑head contact in crowded settings, and perform periodic checks when exposure risk is high.