What is used to remove lice and nits from the head? - briefly
A fine‑toothed nit comb, employed after applying an approved pediculicide shampoo or lotion, removes both lice and their eggs. The comb’s closely spaced teeth separate nits from hair shafts, enabling complete elimination.
What is used to remove lice and nits from the head? - in detail
Effective eradication of head‑lice infestations relies on a combination of chemical, mechanical, and physical interventions.
Chemical agents, commonly referred to as pediculicides, are formulated to penetrate the exoskeleton of the insects and disrupt their nervous system. Over‑the‑counter options include permethrin (1 % lotion), pyrethrin‑based sprays, and malathion (0.5 % solution). Prescription‑strength products such as ivermectin (topical 0.5 % cream) and spinosad (0.9 % lotion) are reserved for resistant cases. All formulations require thorough application to dry hair, adherence to the recommended contact time, and a repeat treatment after 7–10 days to target newly hatched nymphs.
Mechanical removal employs fine‑toothed combs specifically designed for lice control. The comb’s teeth are spaced 0.2–0.3 mm apart, allowing capture of both adult insects and their eggs. Effective use involves combing damp hair in sections, starting at the scalp and moving toward the hair tips, with a clean comb wiped after each pass. Multiple combing sessions over several days are necessary to ensure complete clearance.
Physical methods include heat‑based devices that emit infrared or hot air at temperatures of 50–55 °C, sufficient to kill lice and nits without chemicals. These tools require precise temperature control and uniform exposure across the scalp for at least 10 minutes.
Adjunct measures support primary treatment: washing bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water (≥ 60 °C) or sealing them in sealed plastic bags for two weeks; avoiding direct head‑to‑head contact; and limiting the use of hair products that may impede chemical penetration.
In summary, a comprehensive approach combines an appropriate pediculicide, a specialized lice comb, and, when feasible, a heat‑based device, supplemented by environmental decontamination to achieve complete elimination of the infestation.