How to treat lice with an effective remedy? - briefly
Apply a 1% permethrin shampoo or 0.5% malathion lotion to dry hair, leave for the recommended duration, then rinse. Follow with a fine‑tooth comb to remove nits and repeat the treatment after 7–10 days while laundering bedding and clothing.
How to treat lice with an effective remedy? - in detail
Lice infestations require prompt, systematic action to eliminate the parasites and prevent recurrence. Begin by confirming the presence of live nits or adult insects on the scalp, using a fine-toothed comb under bright light. Remove any visible debris before applying a treatment.
Select an approved pediculicide that contains a proven active ingredient such as permethrin (1 %) or pyrethrin with piperonyl butoxide. Follow the product label precisely: apply the solution to dry hair, ensuring coverage from the scalp to the tips. Leave the preparation on for the specified duration, usually 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with warm water.
After the initial application, comb the hair with a nit comb at 2‑mm intervals, starting at the scalp and moving toward the ends. Discard each combed segment on a disposable surface to avoid re‑contamination. Repeat the combing process every 2–3 days for a total of three sessions.
A second dose of the chemical treatment is required 7–10 days after the first, targeting any newly hatched lice that survived the initial cycle. Use the same product and procedure, or, if resistance is suspected, switch to a prescription option such as malathion (0.5 %) or ivermectin lotion (0.5 %).
Simultaneously address the environment: wash all clothing, bed linens, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat. Seal non‑washable items in plastic bags for two weeks. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats, discarding the vacuum bag or cleaning the canister afterward.
For households preferring non‑chemical approaches, apply a dimethicone‑based lotion (≥ 4 %) that suffocates the insects. The application method mirrors that of pediculicides, but the product must remain on the hair for at least 30 minutes before removal. Follow with the same rigorous combing schedule.
Finally, educate all contacts about avoiding head‑to‑head contact, not sharing personal items (combs, hats, headphones), and conducting regular inspections during the next month. Consistent adherence to these steps eradicates the infestation and minimizes the risk of re‑infestation.