How to treat lice and nits? - briefly
Apply an FDA‑approved pediculicide (such as 1 % permethrin lotion) to the scalp and hair according to the product directions, then rinse. Comb the hair with a fine‑tooth nit comb to remove all eggs and repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate any newly hatched lice.
How to treat lice and nits? - in detail
Effective elimination of head lice and their eggs requires a systematic approach that combines direct treatment, meticulous removal of nits, and environmental sanitation.
First, confirm the infestation by examining the scalp and hair under bright light. Look for live insects about the size of sesame seeds and for oval, white or yellowish nits attached close to the scalp, typically within a quarter inch of the hair shaft.
Second, apply an appropriate pediculicide. Options include:
- Permethrin 1 % lotion, applied to dry hair, left for 10 minutes, then rinsed. Repeat after 7–10 days to target newly hatched lice.
- Pyrethrin combined with piperonyl butoxide, used similarly to permethrin but with a shorter contact time (5 minutes). Suitable for individuals without known resistance.
- Prescription agents such as malathion 0.5 % or ivermectin 0.5 % lotion, reserved for resistant cases or when over‑the‑counter products fail.
- Non‑chemical alternatives like dimethicone 4 % lotion, which suffocates insects without neurotoxic action.
Follow the product’s instructions precisely; misuse can reduce efficacy and increase resistance.
Third, remove nits mechanically. Use a fine‑toothed nit comb on wet, conditioned hair. Divide hair into sections, start at the scalp, and pull the comb through each strand, wiping the teeth after each pass. Repeat the combing process every 2–3 days for at least two weeks. This step is essential because chemical treatments do not reliably kill eggs.
Fourth, decontaminate personal items and surroundings:
- Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F / 54 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items (hats, hair accessories) in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats to remove stray hairs that may harbor lice.
- Avoid sharing combs, brushes, hats, or headphones until the infestation is cleared.
Fifth, monitor for recurrence. Inspect the scalp 7–10 days after the initial treatment and again after the second application. If live lice are still present, repeat the chemical treatment or consider an alternative agent. Persistent infestations may warrant a medical evaluation for prescription‑strength therapy.
Finally, educate all household members about detection and avoidance practices, such as avoiding head‑to‑head contact during play and not sharing personal grooming tools. Consistent implementation of the steps above leads to complete eradication and minimizes the risk of reinfestation.