What is used to remove lice from hair? - briefly
A pediculicide—commonly a 1 % permethrin lotion or an equivalent insecticidal preparation—applied to the scalp and followed by meticulous combing with a fine‑toothed nit comb removes lice effectively.
What is used to remove lice from hair? - in detail
Effective lice eradication relies on a combination of chemical agents, mechanical techniques, and, in some cases, natural substances.
Over‑the‑counter pediculicides contain neurotoxic insecticides such as permethrin (1 %), pyrethrin, or dimethicone. Permethrin and pyrethrin disrupt the nervous system of the parasite, leading to rapid immobilization. Dimethicone acts as a physical coating that suffocates the insects without a chemical poison. Prescription options include malathion (0.5 %) and ivermectin lotion (0.5 %). These formulations are applied to dry hair, left for the recommended duration (usually 10 minutes for permethrin, 8–12 hours for malathion), then rinsed thoroughly.
Mechanical removal employs a fine-toothed nit comb, ideally metal, with teeth spaced 0.2–0.3 mm apart. The procedure requires:
- Wetting hair with a conditioner to reduce slip.
- Dividing hair into sections.
- Running the comb from scalp to tip, repeating each section three times.
- Disposing of combed material on a white surface to confirm removal.
- Repeating the process after 7–10 days to capture newly hatched nymphs.
Natural options include:
- High‑concentration silicone oil (e.g., 100 % dimethicone) applied similarly to chemical treatments; it suffocates lice without resistance concerns.
- Essential oil blends (tea tree, lavender, neem) combined with a carrier oil; evidence suggests limited efficacy, best used as adjuncts rather than sole treatment.
Environmental control complements direct treatment. Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat. Non‑launderable items may be sealed in plastic bags for two weeks to starve any surviving insects. Vacuum carpets and upholstery to remove stray nits.
A comprehensive protocol typically follows this schedule:
- Day 0: Apply approved pediculicide, perform nit combing.
- Day 7–10: Repeat nit combing; apply a second dose of pediculicide if resistance is suspected.
- Day 14: Final combing to confirm absence of live lice and viable nits.
Adherence to product instructions, proper comb technique, and environmental sanitation together achieve reliable elimination of head lice.