What helps get rid of lice and nits? - briefly
Effective treatment combines a medicated shampoo containing permethrin or pyrethrin with a thorough nit‑comb session, followed by a second application 7–10 days later to eliminate any newly hatched lice. Repeat the combing for several days and wash all bedding and clothing in hot water to prevent reinfestation.
What helps get rid of lice and nits? - in detail
Effective elimination of head‑lice infestations requires a combination of direct treatment, thorough removal of eggs, and environmental decontamination.
The first line of defense is a pediculicide approved by health authorities. Permethrin 1 % lotion, applied to dry hair for ten minutes and rinsed off, kills most adult lice and some nits. If resistance is suspected, a prescription‑only product such as malathion 0.5 % or spinosad 0.9 % may be used according to the label instructions. Always follow the recommended dosage and repeat the application after seven to ten days to catch any newly hatched insects.
Manual extraction complements chemical measures. A fine‑toothed nit comb, preferably metal, should be run through damp hair from the scalp outward after each treatment session. Section the hair, comb each section at least three times, and wipe the comb on a white tissue after each pass to verify removal. Dispose of collected lice and nits by sealing them in a plastic bag and discarding them in the trash.
Adjunctive home remedies can reduce reinfestation risk but should not replace approved agents. Applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly to the scalp before shampooing can suffocate lice; the mixture must remain for at least eight hours. Essential oils such as tea‑tree or neem possess limited ovicidal activity; if used, they should be diluted in a carrier oil and applied for a minimum of 30 minutes before washing.
Environmental control limits re‑exposure. Wash all bedding, towels, and clothing used within the previous 48 hours in water hotter than 130 °F (54 °C) or dry‑clean them. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks, the typical survival period for lice off the host. Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture to remove stray hairs that may contain eggs.
Follow‑up inspection on day 10–14 after the initial treatment confirms success. Examine the scalp under bright light; any live insects or viable eggs require an additional treatment cycle. Repeat the nit‑combing routine for another week to ensure complete eradication.