What is the proper way to get rid of lice and nits? - briefly
Treat the infestation with an FDA‑approved lice medication applied to dry hair, then thoroughly comb out all live insects and eggs using a fine‑toothed nit comb, wash clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water, and repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate any hatchlings.
What is the proper way to get rid of lice and nits? - in detail
Effective elimination of head lice and their eggs requires a coordinated approach that combines chemical treatment, mechanical removal, and environmental sanitation.
The first step is accurate identification. Examine the scalp under bright light, using a fine-toothed lice comb. Look for live insects about 2–4 mm long, nymphs, or brownish oval eggs attached close to the hair shaft, typically within ¼ inch of the scalp.
Chemical treatment
- Choose a pediculicide approved by health authorities (e.g., 1 % permethrin lotion, 0.5 % ivermectin, or 0.05 % malathion).
- Apply to dry hair following the product’s instructions, ensuring complete coverage from scalp to hair tips.
- Leave the preparation on for the specified duration (usually 10 minutes).
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
Mechanical removal
- While hair is still damp, use a metal nit comb with 0.2 mm teeth.
- Starting at the scalp, pull the comb through small sections, wiping the teeth with a tissue after each pass.
- Repeat the combing process every 2–3 days for a total of three sessions; this destroys newly hatched nymphs before they mature.
Repeat treatment
Because some eggs may survive the initial application, a second dose of the pediculicide is required 7–10 days after the first. Follow the same procedure, then resume combing for another two sessions.
Environmental control
- Wash all worn clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Seal non‑washable items (e.g., hats, plush toys) in sealed plastic bags for two weeks, the lifespan of a louse.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats; discard vacuum bags or clean canisters immediately.
Precautions
- Avoid using multiple chemical products simultaneously; resistance can develop.
- For infants, pregnant women, or individuals with skin sensitivities, prefer non‑chemical methods such as dimethicone‑based lotions or manual wet combing.
- Do not shave the head unless medically indicated; hair removal does not guarantee eradication and may cause unnecessary trauma.
Monitoring
Inspect the scalp daily for at least two weeks after the final treatment. Absence of live lice and the disappearance of eggs confirm successful eradication. If live insects persist, consult a healthcare professional for prescription‑strength options.