How to use permethrin for lice? - briefly
Apply a 1 % permethrin cream or lotion to dry, shampoo‑clean hair, covering the scalp and all hair shafts, leave it on for 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eradicate any newly hatched insects.
How to use permethrin for lice? - in detail
Permethrin 1 % lotion is the most common over‑the‑counter preparation for head‑lice eradication. Follow these precise steps for optimal results.
1. Read the product label and confirm the concentration is 1 % permethrin. Do not use higher concentrations, which increase the risk of skin irritation.
2. Apply to dry hair. Wet the scalp, towel‑dry, and ensure hair is completely dry before treatment. Moisture interferes with the insecticide’s ability to penetrate the lice exoskeleton.
3. Dispense the entire content of the bottle onto the scalp. Use a comb or your fingers to spread the lotion evenly from the roots to the tips of all hair strands. Cover the entire scalp surface, including the nape and behind the ears.
4. Leave the product on for exactly 10 minutes. Do not exceed the recommended time; prolonged exposure can cause scalp irritation.
5. After 10 minutes, rinse thoroughly with warm water. Do not use shampoo or conditioner during the rinse; plain water removes the residue without reducing efficacy.
6. While hair is still wet, use a fine‑toothed nit comb to remove dead lice and nits. Run the comb through each section from scalp to tip, wiping the comb blade after each pass. Repeat the combing process for at least 15 minutes.
7. Dry the hair completely. Avoid using heat styling tools for the remainder of the day to prevent additional scalp irritation.
8. Schedule a second application 7–10 days later. This interval eliminates any newly hatched lice that survived the first treatment, as permethrin does not kill eggs.
9. Observe for adverse reactions such as redness, itching, or swelling. Discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.
10. Store the container at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children. Do not use the product after the expiration date.
Additional considerations: do not treat infants younger than 2 months or individuals with known hypersensitivity to pyrethrins or permethrin. For severe infestations or failure after two cycles, seek medical advice for alternative therapies.