What is the best way to kill lice and nits? - briefly
Apply a prescription pediculicide—commonly 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % malathion—to the scalp and hair, then comb out all eggs with a fine-toothed nit comb after 7–10 days, repeating the treatment as directed. Follow the product’s instructions precisely and wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water to prevent reinfestation.
What is the best way to kill lice and nits? - in detail
Effective elimination of head lice and their eggs requires a multi‑step approach that combines a proven topical agent, thorough mechanical removal, and environmental decontamination.
The first step is to apply an FDA‑approved pediculicide that targets both live insects and recently hatched nits. Permethrin 1 % lotion, pyrethrin‑based sprays, or dimethicone 4 % liquid are the most reliable choices. Apply the product to dry hair, saturating the scalp and shafts, leave it for the manufacturer‑specified duration (usually 10 minutes), then rinse thoroughly. Resistance to permethrin has risen in some regions; in such cases, a malathion 0.5 % preparation or a benzyl alcohol lotion may be more effective.
After chemical treatment, perform a wet combing session. Use a fine‑toothed nit comb on damp, conditioned hair. Starting at the scalp, pull the comb through to the ends, wiping each tooth clean after every pass. Repeat the process every 2–3 days for a total of three sessions, covering the typical 7–10 day incubation period of any surviving eggs.
Environmental control limits reinfestation. Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in water ≥ 130 °F (54 °C) for at least 10 minutes, then tumble‑dry on high heat for 20 minutes. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks or placed in a freezer at –4 °F (–20 °C) for 24 hours. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats; discard vacuum bags or empty the canister immediately after use.
If chemical options are unavailable or contraindicated, high‑temperature treatment can replace them. Use a professional heat device that raises hair temperature to 130 °F (54 °C) for 10 minutes, or apply a hair dryer on high heat while combing, ensuring each section reaches the target temperature. Heat destroys both lice and nits without chemical exposure.
A concise protocol:
- Apply a certified pediculicide (permethrin, dimethicone, or malathion) according to label instructions.
- Rinse hair, then wet‑comb with a nit comb; repeat every 2–3 days for three sessions.
- Wash or heat‑treat all personal items; vacuum and seal non‑launderable objects.
- Monitor scalp for live insects for 2 weeks; retreat if any are observed.
Following these steps maximizes kill rates for both adult lice and their eggs, reduces the risk of resistance, and prevents recurrence.