How to treat lice in hair? - briefly
Apply a pediculicide such as 1 % permethrin shampoo, follow the label timing, then rinse and comb the hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb to remove live insects and eggs. Repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eradicate any newly hatched lice.
How to treat lice in hair? - in detail
Effective management of head‑lice infestations requires a systematic approach that combines chemical, mechanical, and environmental strategies.
First, select an appropriate pediculicide. Over‑the‑counter products containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin are the most widely used. Follow the label precisely: apply the lotion or shampoo to dry hair, saturating the scalp and shafts, leave for the recommended time (usually 10 minutes), then rinse thoroughly. For resistant cases, consider a prescription‑only agent such as 0.5 % malathion or 0.05 % ivermectin, applied according to medical guidance.
Second, remove nits mechanically. After chemical treatment, use a fine‑toothed nit comb on wet, conditioned hair. Work from the scalp outward, sectioning the hair and combing each strand several times. Dispose of each combed segment in a sealed bag. Repeat the combing process at 7‑day intervals for at least three cycles to capture any newly hatched lice.
Third, implement environmental decontamination. Wash all bedding, towels, and clothing worn within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks or placed in a freezer at –20 °C for 24 hours. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and vehicle seats to remove stray insects.
Fourth, educate all contacts. Examine household members and close contacts, treating anyone who shows signs of infestation. Inform schools or daycare facilities so they can conduct screenings and apply preventive measures.
Finally, monitor for treatment failure. Persistent itching after two weeks may indicate surviving lice or reinfestation. If symptoms continue, repeat the chemical treatment with a different active ingredient, ensuring a minimum interval of one week between applications to avoid resistance buildup.
By integrating these steps—accurate product selection, diligent nit removal, thorough cleaning, comprehensive contact management, and vigilant follow‑up—most infestations can be eliminated without recurrence.