If there are lice on the head, how to remove them? - briefly
Apply a recommended lice treatment, then comb the damp hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb to extract nits and adult insects. Repeat the combing after 7–10 days to catch any newly hatched lice.
If there are lice on the head, how to remove them? - in detail
Head lice infestations require prompt identification and systematic eradication.
First, confirm the presence of insects or their eggs by parting the hair close to the scalp and inspecting for live nits adhered to the shaft within a half‑inch of the skin. Use a fine‑toothed lice comb on wet hair to increase visibility.
Manual removal
- Apply a generous amount of conditioner to loosen the glue that holds nits.
- Comb from the scalp outward, wiping the comb blade after each pass.
- Dispose of each combed segment in a sealed container; repeat the process every 2–3 days for two weeks.
Chemical treatments
- Choose a pediculicide approved by health authorities, such as a 1% permethrin lotion or a 0.5% malathion solution.
- Follow the label: apply to dry hair, cover with a towel, leave for the specified duration, then rinse thoroughly.
- A second application after 7–10 days eliminates newly hatched lice that survived the first dose.
Alternative options
- Dimethicone‑based products suffocate insects without neurotoxic chemicals.
- Essential‑oil mixtures (e.g., tea tree, neem) may reduce viability but lack regulatory endorsement; use only as adjuncts.
Environmental control
- Wash bedding, hats, scarves, and hair accessories in hot water (≥60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in a sealed bag for at least 48 hours, as lice cannot survive without a host beyond this period.
- Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture to remove stray insects.
Follow‑up
- Re‑examine the scalp after each treatment cycle.
- Continue combing for at least 14 days to catch any missed nits.
- Educate close contacts to perform similar checks and treat if necessary.
Adhering to this protocol eliminates the infestation and minimizes recurrence.