What can be used to treat lice? - briefly
Effective treatments include over‑the‑counter pediculicides such as 1 % permethrin shampoo, pyrethrin‑based lotions, malathion, and prescription‑strength ivermectin or benzyl alcohol, used together with thorough wet combing on a fine‑toothed nit comb. Adjunct measures—washing bedding in hot water, vacuuming furniture, and avoiding shared personal items—reduce the risk of reinfestation.
What can be used to treat lice? - in detail
Lice infestations are addressed with a range of therapeutic options that target the parasite directly, remove eggs, or prevent re‑infestation. The most effective interventions combine chemical agents, mechanical removal, and environmental measures.
Chemical agents approved for human use fall into two categories. Prescription‑only products include ivermectin lotion (1 % concentration) and malathion 0.5 % shampoo, both applied to the scalp for a specified period and repeated after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched nymphs. Over‑the‑counter formulations contain permethrin 1 % or pyrethrin‑based sprays; these are left on the hair for 10 minutes before rinsing, with a second application after one week.
Mechanical methods complement chemical treatment. Fine‑toothed lice combs, used on wet hair with a conditioner, remove live insects and nits. Repeated combing every 2–3 days for two weeks significantly reduces the population. Manual removal requires thorough inspection of each hair strand and disposal of extracted material in sealed containers.
Natural substances are sometimes employed when chemical resistance is suspected. Dimethicone (silicone‑based oil) coats lice, obstructing respiration and causing death; it is applied similarly to medicated shampoos and does not rely on neurotoxic mechanisms. Tea‑tree oil, eucalyptus oil, and lavender oil have demonstrated limited ovicidal activity in laboratory studies, but clinical efficacy remains inconsistent.
Environmental control limits reinfestation. The following actions are recommended:
- Wash bedding, clothing, and towels at ≥60 °C or seal in plastic bags for 2 weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard vacuum bags afterward.
- Avoid sharing personal items such as combs, hats, or headphones.
Safety considerations include:
- Verify age‑appropriate usage; some products are contraindicated for children under 2 years.
- Follow label instructions regarding exposure time and rinsing.
- Monitor for skin irritation; discontinue use and seek medical advice if reactions occur.
An integrated approach—combining a suitable pediculicide, diligent combing, and strict hygiene measures—offers the highest probability of complete eradication and prevents recurrence.