Lice have appeared in the head: how can you get rid of them? - briefly
Apply a pediculicidal shampoo or lotion, then comb the hair thoroughly with a fine‑toothed nit comb, repeating the process after 7–10 days to remove any newly hatched nits. Wash all clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water and vacuum the environment to prevent re‑infestation.
Lice have appeared in the head: how can you get rid of them? - in detail
Head lice infestation requires prompt and thorough action to eliminate the parasites and prevent re‑colonization.
First, confirm the presence of live insects or viable eggs (nits) attached to hair shafts close to the scalp. Use a fine‑toothed comb on wet, conditioned hair to improve visibility.
Next, apply an approved pediculicide according to the product label. Common active ingredients include permethrin (1 %) and pyrethrin‑based formulations. Follow these steps:
- Apply the lotion or shampoo to dry hair, ensuring full coverage from scalp to tips.
- Leave the preparation on for the specified duration, usually 10 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
- Immediately comb the hair with a nit‑comb to remove dead lice and loosened nits.
- Repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to target any newly hatched insects that survived the first application.
For individuals seeking non‑chemical options, consider the following alternatives:
- Wet combing: Soak hair, apply a silicone‑based conditioner, then comb with a fine nit‑comb every 2–3 days for two weeks.
- Heat treatment: Use a specialized dryer that blows air at 130 °C for a few seconds per strand; this kills both lice and eggs without chemicals.
- Essential oil blends: Formulations containing tea tree, lavender, or neem oil may have limited efficacy; they should be used alongside mechanical removal.
Environmental decontamination is essential:
- Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels used in the preceding 48 hours in water ≥ 60 °C; dry on high heat.
- Seal personal items that cannot be laundered (e.g., hairbrushes, combs) in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and vehicle seats; discard vacuum bags immediately.
Preventive measures reduce future risk:
- Avoid sharing combs, hats, or headphones.
- Encourage regular head inspections in schools or group settings.
- Maintain short hair lengths where feasible, as longer hair facilitates egg attachment.
By adhering to a systematic treatment regimen, combining chemical or mechanical eradication with thorough cleaning and preventive practices, a head‑lice outbreak can be resolved efficiently.