What helps get rid of lice in hair? - briefly
Effective treatment combines a pediculicide shampoo with 1 % permethrin applied to clean, damp hair for ten minutes, then removal of nits using a fine‑tooth comb. A second application after 7–10 days eliminates any newly hatched lice.
What helps get rid of lice in hair? - in detail
Eliminating head‑lice infestations requires a combination of direct treatment, thorough removal of nits, and environmental decontamination.
Effective topical insecticides include 1 % permethrin shampoo, 0.5 % pyrethrin with piperonyl‑butoxide, and 0.5 % malathion lotion. Application follows label directions: apply to dry hair, leave for the specified time, then rinse. Repeat treatment after 7–10 days to target newly hatched nymphs. Resistance to pyrethrins has been documented; in such cases, a prescription‑only preparation containing spinosad or ivermectin may be necessary.
Mechanical removal employs a fine‑toothed nit comb. Procedure: wet hair with conditioner, run the comb from scalp to tips in a systematic manner, cleaning the comb after each pass. Perform combing daily for at least 10 days, then every other day for an additional week to ensure all eggs are eliminated.
Non‑chemical options rely on suffocating agents. Dimethicone‑based lotions coat lice and nits, preventing respiration. Application mirrors that of insecticide shampoos, with a minimum exposure of 10 minutes. Oil‑based treatments—olive, coconut, or mineral oil—require thorough saturation of hair, a 30‑minute dwell, and subsequent combing. Evidence supports dimethicone as highly effective, while essential‑oil preparations (e.g., tea‑tree, neem) lack consistent clinical validation.
Environmental measures reduce re‑infestation risk. Wash bedding, clothing, and hats in hot water (> 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat. Items unable to withstand heat should be sealed in plastic bags for two weeks. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard vacuum bags promptly.
Follow‑up inspections verify eradication. Examine hair under bright light at 24‑hour intervals for live lice; continue weekly checks for one month. Prompt retreatment upon detection prevents resurgence.