What can be used to remove lice at home from an adult? - briefly
Effective over‑the‑counter options are a 1 % permethrin shampoo or a 0.5 % pyrethrin lotion applied as directed, then a fine‑toothed nit comb used after 7–10 days. Alternative home methods include dimethicone‑based sprays or tea‑tree‑oil preparations, also combined with systematic combing.
What can be used to remove lice at home from an adult? - in detail
Effective home treatment for adult head‑lice infestations relies on a combination of chemical and non‑chemical methods applied correctly.
A thorough wet combing session should begin with shampooing the hair using a regular or medicated cleanser. After rinsing, apply a generous amount of a lice‑killing product such as a 1 % permethrin lotion, 0.5 % pyrethrin spray, or a dimethicone‑based solution. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding contact time, typically 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
While the hair remains damp, use a fine‑toothed nit comb (tooth spacing ≤0.2 mm). Divide the hair into sections, pull each section taut, and comb from the scalp to the ends. After each pass, wipe the comb on a paper towel and re‑apply the combing solution if necessary. Repeat the process for the entire scalp, then wash the hair with a regular shampoo.
Repeat the wet‑combing routine every 2–3 days for a total of three applications, as newly hatched nits may emerge after the initial treatment.
Additional home‑based options include:
- Oil treatments: Coconut, olive, or mineral oil applied to the scalp and hair, left for at least 30 minutes, then combed with a nit comb. Oil suffocates lice and eases removal of nits.
- Vinegar rinse: Diluted white vinegar (1 part vinegar to 4 parts water) applied after shampooing helps loosen the glue that attaches nits to hair shafts, facilitating combing.
- Alcohol spray: Isopropyl alcohol (70 %) sprayed onto hair, left for 5 minutes, then combed. Alcohol desiccates lice but should be used sparingly to avoid scalp irritation.
Environmental control measures are essential:
- Wash all bedding, towels, and clothing used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for at least two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets and upholstery to remove stray hairs that may harbor nits.
If symptoms persist after two weeks of diligent home treatment, or if severe scalp irritation develops, seek professional medical advice.