What products are used to remove lice at home? - briefly
Common household treatments include over‑the‑counter pediculicides with permethrin or pyrethrin, dimethicone‑based lotions, and natural agents such as tea‑tree oil or neem oil applied with a fine‑toothed comb. All should be used according to label directions and followed by thorough combing to eliminate nits.
What products are used to remove lice at home? - in detail
Effective home treatment for head‑lice infestations relies on a limited set of products that either kill the insects or facilitate their physical removal.
Over‑the‑counter medicated shampoos and rinses contain insecticidal agents such as permethrin (1 %), pyrethrins, or dimethicone. Permethrin eliminates live lice and some nits; pyrethrins act quickly but may require a second application; dimethicone coats the insects, causing suffocation without resistance development. These formulations are applied to dry hair, left for the recommended time (usually 10 minutes), then rinsed thoroughly.
Non‑chemical options include silicone‑based lotions and oils (e.g., mineral oil, olive oil, coconut oil). When applied generously, they block the breathing pores of lice, leading to death within several hours. After a minimum of two hours, the hair is combed with a fine‑toothed nit‑comb to extract dead insects and eggs.
Prescription‑strength products, such as malathion (0.5 %) or benzyl alcohol lotion (5 %), are available when OTC solutions fail. Malathion requires a 12‑hour exposure before washing; benzyl alcohol must remain on the scalp for 10 minutes. Both have specific usage warnings and are not suitable for infants under two months.
Adjunctive aids improve efficacy:
- Nit‑comb – metal or plastic comb with 0.2 mm teeth; used in systematic passes from scalp outward, repeated every 2–3 days for two weeks.
- Hair conditioner – applied after combing to reduce tangling and facilitate removal of residual nits.
- White vinegar or alcohol – sprayed on hair before combing to loosen egg attachments, though evidence of added benefit is limited.
Safety considerations: always follow label instructions regarding age limits, exposure time, and repeat treatments. Avoid simultaneous use of multiple insecticides to prevent adverse reactions. For individuals with allergic skin conditions or sensitivities, silicone‑based oils provide a low‑risk alternative.
In summary, home eradication combines insecticidal shampoos or lotions (permethrin, pyrethrins, dimethicone, malathion, benzyl alcohol) with mechanical removal using a fine‑toothed comb, supported by oils or conditioners to enhance nits extraction. Reapplication after 7–10 days addresses any newly hatched lice, ensuring complete clearance.