What is a fast way to get rid of lice and nits at home? - briefly
Apply a 1% permethrin lotion or a 0.5% malathion shampoo as directed, rinse with hot water, and repeat the treatment after seven days. After each wash, comb the damp hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb to remove any remaining eggs.
What is a fast way to get rid of lice and nits at home? - in detail
Lice infestations require swift, thorough action to eliminate both adult insects and their eggs. Begin by separating the affected person’s clothing, bedding, and personal items; wash them in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in airtight plastic bags for two weeks to deprive lice of a viable environment.
Next, apply a proven pediculicide such as 1% permethrin lotion or a dimethicone‑based product directly to damp hair, following the manufacturer’s instructions for timing and coverage. After the recommended exposure period, rinse thoroughly with warm water. Immediately comb the hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb, working from scalp to ends, and remove each nymph and egg. Repeat the combing process every 4–6 hours for the first 24 hours, then at 24‑hour intervals for the next two days.
To support chemical treatment, use a non‑chemical method: saturate the hair with a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water, let it sit for 10 minutes, then rinse and comb again. The acidic solution loosens the glue that secures nits to the hair shaft, making removal easier.
Finally, maintain a strict hygiene regimen for at least three weeks. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; wipe surfaces with a disinfectant. Inspect all family members daily, repeating the combing procedure if any live lice are observed. Consistent application of these steps eradicates the infestation rapidly and prevents re‑colonization.