What should be purchased to combat lice and nits? - briefly
Purchase a lice‑killing treatment such as a permethrin or pyrethrin shampoo or lotion, a fine‑tooth nit comb, and a spray or powder for bedding and clothing. These items together eliminate live insects and remove remaining eggs.
What should be purchased to combat lice and nits? - in detail
Effective treatment of head‑lice infestations requires a combination of chemical agents, mechanical tools, and environmental measures.
A permethrin‑based lotion (1 %) applied to clean, towel‑dried hair for ten minutes and then rinsed off eliminates active insects. For cases of resistance, a pyrethrin formulation with piperonyl‑butoxide or a malathion spray (0.5 %) provides an alternative. Ivermectin lotion (0.5 %) and benzyl alcohol lotion (5 %) are suitable for children over two months, offering non‑neurotoxic options. Dimethicone‑based products work by physically coating and suffocating lice and nits without chemicals.
A metal nit comb with 0.15 mm spacing removes eggs and dead insects after each treatment. Comb the hair in sections, wiping the teeth with a damp cloth after every pass. Repeat combing every three to four days for two weeks to catch newly hatched lice.
Environmental control includes washing all clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in water ≥ 130 °F (54 °C) and drying on high heat for at least 20 minutes. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks. Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture to remove stray eggs.
For infants and pregnant individuals, a dimethicone spray applied to damp hair, left for five minutes, then rinsed, is recommended because it lacks systemic absorption. Always read label warnings regarding age limits and contraindications.
A complete kit therefore consists of:
- A licensed pediculicide or dimethicone product appropriate for the user’s age and resistance profile.
- A fine‑tooth nit comb for post‑treatment removal.
- Laundry detergent and access to hot‑water washing or a high‑heat dryer.
- A sealable plastic bag for items that cannot be washed.
- A vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter for thorough cleaning of the environment.
Following the product‑specific application schedule, combined with diligent combing and environmental sanitation, ensures eradication of the infestation and prevents re‑infestation.