How to wash the head to remove lice? - briefly
Apply a medicated lice shampoo to thoroughly wet hair, comb through with a fine‑toothed nit comb, rinse, and repeat the treatment after 7–10 days.
How to wash the head to remove lice? - in detail
Effective removal of head‑lice requires a systematic approach that combines chemical treatment, thorough washing, and environmental control.
Begin by selecting an appropriate pediculicide shampoo or a medical‑grade lice‑removing lotion. Verify that the product is approved for scalp use and follow the label dosage precisely. Apply the solution to dry hair, ensuring full coverage from scalp to tips. Massage gently for 30–60 seconds to distribute the active ingredient evenly; vigorous rubbing can damage the skin and dislodge lice before the product penetrates.
After the contact time prescribed (typically 10–15 minutes), rinse the hair with warm water. Use a fine‑toothed nit comb, ideally with a metal or plastic blade spaced 0.2 mm apart. Starting at the scalp, pull the comb through a small section of hair, moving outward toward the ends. Clean the comb after each pass by wiping it on a white paper towel; any lice or nits will be visible. Repeat the combing process for the entire head, then rinse again to remove debris.
Dry the scalp with a clean towel; avoid using hair dryers on high heat, which may harden the adhesive coating of some products. Allow the hair to air‑dry or use a low‑heat setting if necessary.
Post‑treatment steps are critical:
- Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard vacuum bags or clean canisters immediately.
- Seal non‑washable items (e.g., stuffed animals) in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks, the typical lifespan of a louse away from a host.
- Perform a second nit‑comb session 7–10 days after the initial treatment to capture any newly hatched nits that survived the first round.
Maintain a weekly inspection of the scalp for at least four weeks. If live lice are detected after the second combing, repeat the entire process with a different class of pediculicide, as resistance may have developed.
Adhering strictly to these steps maximizes the likelihood of complete eradication and minimizes the risk of reinfestation.