What can be done about lice at home? - briefly
Apply an FDA‑approved pediculicide shampoo and remove nits with a fine‑toothed comb, then wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water and dry on high heat, vacuum carpets and upholstery, and repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eradicate any newly hatched insects.
What can be done about lice at home? - in detail
Dealing with head‑lice infestations requires a systematic approach that combines treatment, cleaning, and prevention.
First, choose an effective pediculicide. Over‑the‑counter options contain either permethrin (1 %) or pyrethrin with piperonyl‑butoxide. Follow the label precisely: apply to dry hair, leave for the recommended time, then rinse thoroughly. For resistant cases, a prescription‑only preparation such as malathion (0.5 %) or ivermectin lotion may be required; a medical professional should confirm suitability.
Second, remove nits mechanically. Use a fine‑toothed lice comb on wet, conditioned hair. Work from the scalp outward, cleaning the comb after each pass. Repeat combing every 2–3 days for two weeks to catch newly hatched lice.
Third, treat personal items and the environment.
- Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used in the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F/54 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Seal non‑washable items (e.g., stuffed toys) in a sealed plastic bag for 2 weeks; lice cannot survive beyond 48 hours without a host.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats; discard vacuum bags or clean canisters immediately.
- Avoid fumigants, insecticide sprays, or excessive heat devices, as they provide no proven benefit and may pose health risks.
Fourth, monitor and repeat. Perform a thorough head inspection 7 days after initial treatment. If live lice are observed, repeat the pediculicide application according to product instructions (typically 7–10 days later). Continue weekly checks for four weeks to ensure eradication.
Fifth, prevent re‑infestation.
- Instruct all household members to avoid sharing combs, hats, hair accessories, and pillows.
- Encourage regular hair inspections, especially in school‑age children.
- Educate caregivers about early signs—itching, visible lice or nits near the scalp.
By integrating chemical treatment, diligent nit removal, environmental sanitation, and vigilant follow‑up, an infestation can be eliminated without professional intervention.