What is the best way to get rid of lice and nits? - briefly
Apply an FDA‑approved 1 % permethrin or pyrethrin lotion to the scalp, leave it on for the recommended time, then rinse and comb wet hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb. Repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate any newly hatched nits.
What is the best way to get rid of lice and nits? - in detail
Lice infestations require prompt and thorough action to eradicate both the insects and their eggs. Accurate identification precedes any treatment; live insects appear as small, grayish‑white bodies moving quickly on the scalp, while nits cling tightly to hair shafts near the scalp and are difficult to dislodge.
Effective control combines chemical, mechanical, and environmental measures.
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Chemical agents
Over‑the‑counter shampoos or lotions containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin are applied according to package directions, left on the scalp for the specified time, then rinsed.
Prescription products such as 0.5 % malathion, 0.05 % ivermectin, or benzyl alcohol 5 % may be used when resistance to OTC formulas is suspected. Follow‑up dosing is typically required 7–10 days after the initial application to target newly hatched lice. -
Mechanical removal
Wet combing involves applying a generous amount of conditioner to damp hair, then using a fine‑toothed nit comb to slide from scalp to tip in sections, wiping the comb after each pass. Repeat the process every 2–3 days for at least two weeks.
Manual extraction with tweezers may be employed for isolated nits, but is time‑consuming and less practical for extensive infestations. -
Environmental sanitation
Wash all recently worn clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 130 °F/54 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes.
Seal non‑washable items in sealed plastic bags for two weeks to starve any surviving lice.
Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and vehicle seats thoroughly; discard vacuum bags or clean canisters afterward. -
Follow‑up assessment
Examine the scalp 7–10 days after treatment; if live lice persist, repeat the chosen chemical regimen or switch to an alternative class. Continue wet combing for an additional week to ensure complete removal of residual nits.
Combining a properly applied pediculicide with diligent nit removal and thorough decontamination of personal items yields the highest probability of eliminating the infestation and preventing re‑infestation.