What methods are used to remove lice according to forums? - briefly
Forums commonly advise using a fine-toothed nit comb combined with over‑the‑counter shampoos containing permethrin, pyrethrin, or dimethicone, alongside natural options like tea‑tree oil or vinegar rinses; they also stress washing clothing and bedding in hot water and repeating treatments to ensure eradication.
What methods are used to remove lice according to forums? - in detail
Online discussion boards consistently reference a range of approaches for eradicating head‑lice infestations. The most frequently mentioned techniques include chemical treatments, manual removal, and alternative home remedies, each described with specific application details.
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Over‑the‑counter pediculicides: Permethrin 1 % shampoo or lotion is applied to dry hair, left for 10 minutes, then rinsed. Users often repeat the process after 7–10 days to target newly hatched nymphs. Pyrethrin‑based sprays are used similarly but require a 30‑minute exposure before washing. Both products carry warnings about resistance; many forums advise checking the expiration date and following the manufacturer’s instructions precisely.
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Prescription‑strength options: Benzyl alcohol lotion (5 %) is applied to damp hair, left for 10 minutes, then rinsed, with a second application after 7 days. Malathion 0.5 % is spread over dry hair, left for 8–12 hours, then shampooed. Spinosad 0.9 % is left on for 10 minutes before rinsing. Forum participants note that these agents require medical supervision for children under two years or for individuals with skin sensitivities.
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Mechanical removal: Fine‑toothed nit combs, often metal or plastic, are run through wet, conditioned hair from scalp to tips. The process is repeated every 2–3 days for two weeks. Successful users combine combing with a conditioner to reduce hair breakage and increase glide. Many recommend sectioning the hair, using a bright light, and disposing of each combed strand into a sealed bag.
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Heat‑based devices: Electric lice‑removal brushes heat hair to 120–130 °C while combing. Sessions last 5–10 minutes per section, followed by a thorough rinse. Forums stress the need for protective gloves and the avoidance of burns, especially on children’s scalps.
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Natural or home‑brew solutions: Olive oil, coconut oil, or mayonnaise are saturated into the scalp, covered with a shower cap, and left for 8–12 hours before combing. The oily medium suffocates lice, and users claim reduced irritation. Some threads add a few drops of tea‑tree or lavender essential oil for alleged insecticidal properties, though efficacy is debated.
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Environmental control: Washing bedding, hats, and hair accessories in hot water (≥ 130 °F) or sealing them in plastic bags for two weeks is repeatedly emphasized. Vacuuming carpets and upholstery, and using a steam cleaner on upholstered furniture, are suggested to eliminate stray nits.
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Follow‑up regimen: Most contributors advise a schedule of re‑treatment or re‑combing on day 7–10 and again on day 14 to eliminate any eggs that survived the initial cycle. Documentation of hair checks every 48 hours helps confirm eradication.
Collectively, forum discourse underscores the importance of combining chemical or mechanical treatment with diligent repeat applications and thorough environmental sanitation to achieve reliable lice elimination.