How to use shampoo for lice? - briefly
Wet the hair, apply the lice‑killing shampoo as directed, massage the scalp for the recommended time, then rinse thoroughly. Repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eradicate any newly hatched lice.
How to use shampoo for lice? - in detail
When treating head‑lice infestation with a medicated shampoo, follow a precise protocol to achieve maximum efficacy.
Begin by selecting a product that contains an approved insecticide, such as permethrin 1 % or pyrethrin 0.5 %. Verify the expiration date and read the label for any contraindications, especially for children under two months or individuals with scalp conditions.
Prepare the affected person by wetting the hair thoroughly with warm water. Apply the shampoo evenly, ensuring the scalp and all hair shafts are saturated. Massage gently for the duration specified on the label, typically two to three minutes, to allow the active ingredient to penetrate the exoskeleton of the parasites.
After the prescribed contact time, rinse the hair completely with lukewarm water. Avoid using conditioners or other hair products until the next washing cycle, as they may interfere with residual activity.
Once the hair is dry, use a fine‑toothed nit comb to remove dead lice and nits. Comb in sections, starting at the scalp and moving toward the ends. Discard collected debris in a sealed container.
Repeat the entire procedure after seven to ten days, regardless of apparent success, to eliminate newly hatched lice that survived the initial treatment.
Additional precautions include:
- Keeping treated individuals away from close head‑to‑head contact for at least 24 hours.
- Washing clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and drying on high heat.
- Inspecting all household members and treating any additional cases promptly.
Adherence to the outlined steps, combined with thorough environmental decontamination, reduces the likelihood of reinfestation and promotes rapid resolution of the problem.