What gets rid of lice? - briefly
Over‑the‑counter pediculicides such as permethrin or pyrethrin kill head lice, while a fine‑toothed nit comb removes surviving nits; washing clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water completes the treatment.
What gets rid of lice? - in detail
Lice infestations demand immediate and thorough eradication to prevent spread and secondary infection. Effective removal relies on agents that target the insects’ nervous system, disrupt their respiration, or physically eliminate them from the hair shaft.
Chemical pediculicides remain the primary option. Commonly approved products include:
- Permethrin 1 % lotion, a synthetic pyrethroid that paralyzes lice after topical application; resistance may develop in some populations.
- Pyrethrin combined with piperonyl butoxide, enhancing insecticidal activity by inhibiting metabolic detoxification.
- Malathion 0.5 % lotion, an organophosphate effective against resistant strains; contraindicated for individuals with skin lesions or respiratory disorders.
- Benzyl alcohol 5 % lotion, a non‑neurotoxic formulation that suffocates lice; requires a repeat application after seven days.
- Ivermectin 0.5 % lotion, a macrocyclic lactone that binds to glutamate‑gated chloride channels, leading to paralysis; approved for use in children older than six months.
Non‑chemical strategies avoid resistance issues and can be used alongside medicated treatments. Proven methods comprise:
- Wet combing with a fine‑toothed nit comb after applying a conditioner; repeated every three to four days for two weeks eliminates both live lice and newly hatched nymphs.
- Silicone‑based products that coat the exoskeleton, impairing mobility and facilitating removal; these require thorough rinsing and subsequent combing.
- Heat therapy using a specialized device that raises hair temperature to 50 °C for ten minutes, a temperature lethal to lice without chemical exposure.
- Manual removal of visible nymphs and adult insects using tweezers; labor‑intensive but useful for low‑level infestations.
Environmental control reduces reinfestation risk. Recommended actions include:
- Washing bedding, clothing, and towels in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and drying on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Sealing non‑washable items in plastic bags for two weeks, the lifespan of a louse away from a host.
- Vacuuming carpets, upholstery, and vehicle seats to capture stray insects and eggs.
- Avoiding shared personal items such as combs, hats, and headphones during treatment.
A comprehensive approach combines a single‑application pediculicide with daily wet combing for ten days, supplemented by rigorous environmental decontamination. Follow‑up inspection after the treatment cycle confirms eradication; persistent nits or live insects warrant a second‑line medication or consultation with a healthcare professional.