What helps to get rid of lice at home? - briefly
Apply a pediculicide shampoo or a high‑concentration oil (e.g., tea‑tree or olive) to damp hair, then comb meticulously with a fine‑toothed nit comb, repeating the process after 7–10 days. Launder all clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water and vacuum the environment to eliminate remaining eggs.
What helps to get rid of lice at home? - in detail
Effective removal of head lice in a domestic setting requires a combination of direct treatment, thorough cleaning of personal items, and environmental control.
The first step is to treat the infested person. Use a finely spaced comb (approximately 0.2 mm teeth) on wet, conditioned hair. Begin at the scalp, work through to the tips, and repeat the process every 2–3 days for two weeks. This mechanical method eliminates live insects and nits that are attached to the hair shaft.
Chemical options include over‑the‑counter pediculicides containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin. Apply according to the product label, leave the solution on the scalp for the specified duration, then rinse thoroughly. A second application after 7–10 days targets any newly hatched lice that survived the initial dose.
Natural alternatives such as 100 % tea‑tree oil, neem oil, or a mixture of distilled vinegar and water can be applied to the scalp and left for 30 minutes before combing. While less studied, these substances may suffocate or repel the parasites and are suitable for individuals sensitive to synthetic chemicals.
Environmental measures reduce re‑infestation risk. Follow this checklist:
- Wash all recently worn clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Seal non‑washable items (e.g., hats, stuffed animals) in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks, the lifespan of a lice egg.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately after use.
- Avoid sharing combs, brushes, hats, or headphones until the infestation is cleared.
Monitoring continues for four weeks after treatment. Inspect the hair daily for live insects and nits; any detection warrants immediate repetition of the combing protocol. Consistent application of these steps eliminates the infestation and prevents recurrence.