What is an effective remedy for removing lice and nits? - briefly
Apply a 1% permethrin lotion or shampoo to clean, dry hair, leave it for the recommended time, then rinse thoroughly. Follow with a fine‑toothed nit comb to remove all remaining eggs.
What is an effective remedy for removing lice and nits? - in detail
An effective solution for eliminating head‑lice infestations combines a proven topical agent with thorough mechanical removal of eggs and environmental decontamination.
The recommended pharmacologic options include:
- 1% permethrin lotion – FDA‑approved, kills active insects on contact; apply to dry hair, leave for 10 minutes, then rinse.
- 0.5% malathion spray – suitable for resistant strains; apply to damp hair, cover with a plastic cap for 8–12 hours, then wash out.
- 1% benzyl alcohol lotion – non‑neurotoxic, suffocates lice; repeat treatment after 7 days to target newly hatched nits.
- Ivermectin 0.5% cream – oral or topical formulation for severe cases; single dose followed by a second dose after 7 days.
Mechanical removal remains essential because chemicals do not reliably penetrate the protective coating of nits. The wet‑comb technique involves:
- Saturating hair with a generous amount of conditioner.
- Using a fine‑toothed nit comb (0.2 mm spacing) to pull from scalp to tip.
- Repeating the pass every 2–3 cm along the entire length.
- Discarding each combed segment in a sealed bag.
- Performing the process daily for 10 days, then weekly for two additional cycles.
Environmental control measures:
- Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels used in the preceding 48 hours at ≥ 60 °C; tumble‑dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items (hats, hair accessories) in airtight bags for 2 weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard vacuum bags immediately.
Post‑treatment verification:
- Inspect the scalp 1 day after the first application; absence of live insects confirms efficacy.
- Conduct a second visual check 7–10 days later; any remaining nits should be removed with the wet‑comb method.
- Repeat chemical treatment only if live lice are observed after the second inspection.
Adhering to this combined regimen—approved topical insecticide, systematic nit combing, and rigorous cleaning—provides the highest probability of complete eradication and prevents re‑infestation.