What is best against lice? - briefly
«Permethrin 1 % lotion applied to the scalp for ten minutes, then followed by meticulous removal of nits with a fine‑toothed comb, provides the highest cure rate». If resistance is confirmed, a silicone‑based product such as dimethicone or a prescription oral ivermectin offers comparable efficacy.
What is best against lice? - in detail
Effective control of head‑lice infestations relies on a combination of chemical, physical and environmental strategies. Chemical agents approved by health authorities include 1 % permethrin shampoo, 0.5 % malathion lotion and 0.05 % spinosad solution. These products must be applied according to label instructions, left on the scalp for the specified period, and followed by a second treatment after seven to ten days to eliminate newly hatched nymphs.
Physical methods complement chemicals and reduce reliance on toxins. Options are:
« wet‑combing » – fine‑toothed nit comb passed through wet hair every 2–3 days for two weeks;
« heat treatment » – devices delivering 50 °C for a few minutes, proven to kill lice and eggs;
« freezing » – sealed garments placed in a freezer at –20 °C for at least 24 hours, effective for clothing, bedding and hats.
Environmental measures target survivors in the surroundings. Steps include:
- washing all recently used bedding, clothing and towels in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and drying on high heat;
- sealing non‑washable items in sealed plastic bags for a minimum of two weeks;
- vacuuming carpets, upholstered furniture and car seats to remove stray nymphs.
Resistance monitoring is essential, as lice populations have shown reduced susceptibility to permethrin in many regions. When treatment failure occurs after two applications, alternative agents such as spinosad or malathion should be considered, or a combination of chemical and physical methods employed.
Prevention focuses on avoiding direct head‑to‑head contact, not sharing personal items, and conducting regular inspections in schools or childcare settings. Early detection, prompt treatment, and thorough decontamination of personal and environmental items constitute the most reliable approach to eradicate infestations.