How to wash the head to get rid of lice? - briefly
Apply a lice‑killing shampoo, massage it into the scalp, leave it on for the time specified on the label, then rinse completely. While the hair is still wet, comb it with a fine‑toothed nit comb to remove nits and repeat the entire process after 7–10 days to eradicate any newly hatched lice.
How to wash the head to get rid of lice? - in detail
Washing the scalp to eliminate lice requires a systematic approach that combines thorough cleansing, chemical treatment, and mechanical removal. The process begins with preparation, continues with the actual wash, and ends with post‑wash care.
First, gather the necessary items: a fine‑toothed lice comb, a medicated shampoo containing either permethrin (1 %) or pyrethrin, a regular gentle shampoo, a clean towel, and a bowl of warm water. Remove all hair accessories, then dampen the hair with lukewarm water to open the cuticle.
Apply the medicated shampoo according to the product instructions, ensuring full coverage from scalp to tips. Massage gently for the recommended time (usually 10 minutes) to allow the insecticide to act on the parasites. Rinse thoroughly with warm water, then follow with a mild shampoo to remove residue and soothe the scalp.
While the hair remains wet, use the fine‑toothed comb. Start at the scalp, pulling the comb through a small section of hair, then wipe the teeth with a tissue after each pass. Repeat this for every section, moving from the front to the back of the head. This mechanical step removes dead lice and nits that survived the chemical exposure.
After combing, rinse the hair again and dry with a clean towel. Allow the scalp to air dry or use a low‑heat setting on a hair dryer; high heat can damage the hair and irritate the skin.
Repeat the entire washing and combing routine after 7–10 days to target any newly hatched lice, as eggs that survived the first treatment will have matured. A third session may be necessary if live insects are still observed.
To reduce reinfestation, wash all bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) and dry on high heat. Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture, and seal non‑washable items in plastic bags for two weeks. Regularly inspect the scalp and repeat combing every few days for a month to confirm eradication.