What should be used to treat hair for lice and nits? - briefly
Use an FDA‑approved pediculicide shampoo or lotion—such as 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % malathion—and follow with a fine‑toothed nit comb to eliminate remaining eggs.
What should be used to treat hair for lice and nits? - in detail
Effective control of head‑lice infestations requires a combination of chemical agents, mechanical removal tools, and follow‑up procedures.
First‑line topical products contain either permethrin (1 %) or pyrethrin with piperonyl‑butoxide. These neurotoxic insecticides kill live lice within minutes and are approved for use on children over two months. Application follows a specific protocol: saturate dry hair, leave the lotion on for the recommended time (usually ten minutes), then rinse thoroughly.
Second‑generation options address growing resistance. Dimethicone, a silicone‑based liquid, works by coating and suffocating lice and nits without neurotoxic effects. It is safe for infants and pregnant individuals. Ivermectin lotion (0.5 %) is a prescription alternative that disrupts nerve transmission in the parasite; a single application is often sufficient, but a repeat dose after seven days eliminates newly hatched lice.
Mechanical removal remains essential. A fine‑toothed nit comb, preferably stainless steel with 0.15‑mm spacing, extracts eggs and dead insects when used on wet, conditioned hair. Systematic combing from scalp to tip, section by section, should be repeated every 2–3 days for at least ten days.
Adjunctive measures include:
- Washing bedding, hats, and personal items in hot water (≥ 60 °C) or sealing them in plastic bags for two weeks.
- Vacuuming upholstered furniture and car seats to remove stray lice.
- Avoiding the use of hair sprays, gels, or oils before treatment, as they can impede pesticide penetration.
A typical regimen combines a pediculicide application with diligent nit combing for three consecutive days, followed by a second chemical treatment seven days after the first to target any survivors. Documentation of product expiration dates and adherence to manufacturer instructions reduce the risk of treatment failure and adverse skin reactions.
When allergic reactions or contraindications preclude chemical use, dimethicone alone, paired with thorough combing, provides a non‑toxic alternative. In cases of persistent infestation despite multiple attempts, consultation with a healthcare professional is advised to consider oral ivermectin or other prescription therapies.