What needs to be done to get rid of lice? - briefly
Apply a pediculicide shampoo or lotion as instructed, then remove remaining nits with a fine-toothed comb, repeating the treatment after 7–10 days; concurrently wash or seal all bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water for at least two weeks.
What needs to be done to get rid of lice? - in detail
Effective lice eradication requires a systematic approach that combines personal treatment, environmental sanitation, and ongoing monitoring.
First, confirm the infestation by examining the scalp and hair under bright light. Use a fine-toothed comb to separate strands; live insects, nits attached to hair shafts within a quarter‑inch of the scalp, and viable eggs confirm the problem.
Next, select an appropriate treatment method. Chemical options include over‑the‑counter pediculicides containing permethrin (1 %) or pyrethrins with piperonyl butoxide. Follow the product label precisely: apply to dry hair, leave for the recommended duration, then rinse thoroughly. Repeat the application after 7–10 days to target newly hatched nits. For resistance concerns, prescription‑strength agents such as malathion (0.5 %) or ivermectin lotion may be prescribed by a healthcare professional; these require exact dosing and may have contraindications.
Non‑chemical alternatives consist of manual removal and silicone‑based solutions. Wet the hair with a generous amount of conditioner, then use a metal nit comb to pull out lice and eggs, sectioning the scalp to ensure thorough coverage. Perform this combing every 2–3 days for at least three weeks. Silicone sprays create a coating that suffocates insects; apply according to manufacturer instructions and repeat after 7 days.
Environmental decontamination reduces reinfestation risk. Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in plastic bags for two weeks or exposed to a freezer at –4 °F (–20 °C) for 24 hours. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard vacuum bags or clean the canister afterward.
Finally, implement preventive measures. Encourage regular head‑checking, especially after group activities. Advise against sharing combs, hats, helmets, or pillows. Maintain short hair or keep longer hair tied back to limit lice mobility. Schedule follow‑up examinations weekly for three weeks to verify complete eradication.
Adhering to this comprehensive protocol eliminates the infestation, minimizes recurrence, and safeguards against future outbreaks.