What needs to be treated for lice? - briefly
Effective eradication requires treatment of the hair and scalp with a pediculicide and simultaneous laundering of clothing, bedding, and personal items at high temperature. Repeated application according to product instructions ensures elimination of both live lice and newly hatched nymphs.
What needs to be treated for lice? - in detail
The infestation demands comprehensive treatment of both the host and the surrounding environment.
All hair-bearing regions of the affected individual must receive direct therapy. This includes scalp hair, facial hair, eyebrows, eyelashes, and body hair such as chest, abdominal, pubic, and axillary regions. Each area should be covered with an appropriate pediculicide or mechanical removal method.
Personal items that come into direct contact with hair require decontamination. Items to be processed are:
- Hats, scarves, wigs, and hair accessories
- Brushes, combs, hair clippers, and styling tools
- Headbands, earphones, and helmets
These objects should be soaked in hot water (minimum 50 °C) for at least 10 minutes or placed in a sealed bag for two weeks to ensure egg eradication.
Clothing and linens that have touched the infested person must be laundered. Recommended actions:
- Wash shirts, jackets, socks, underwear, and sleepwear in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat.
- For items unable to withstand heat, seal in a plastic bag for 48 hours; lice cannot survive without a host beyond this period.
Bedding, towels, and upholstered furniture need similar attention. Wash sheets, pillowcases, and blankets in hot water, then dry on high heat. Vacuum carpets, mattresses, and upholstery thoroughly; discard vacuum bags or clean canisters after use.
Environmental surfaces that may harbor lice eggs, such as hairbrush holders, comb trays, and shared equipment, should be disinfected with an EPA‑registered insecticide or a solution of 70 % isopropyl alcohol.
In summary, successful eradication requires simultaneous treatment of:
- All hair‑bearing body regions of the individual.
- Directly contacting personal accessories.
- Clothing, linens, and towels.
- Bedding, upholstery, and other household fabrics.
- Environmental surfaces and shared equipment.
Adhering to this multi‑pronged approach eliminates active lice and prevents re‑infestation.