What should you wash your head with when you have lice? - briefly
A lice‑specific shampoo containing permethrin or pyrethrin should be applied to the scalp, left on for the recommended time, then rinsed thoroughly. After washing, a fine‑toothed nit comb used with a regular conditioner removes remaining nits and adult insects.
What should you wash your head with when you have lice? - in detail
When an infestation is confirmed, the primary cleanser should be a medicated formulation specifically designed to eradicate the parasites. Products containing «permethrin 1 %» or «pyrethrins with piperonyl butoxide» are approved for single‑application use. Apply the shampoo to dry hair, massage into the scalp, then leave the solution on for the manufacturer‑specified duration, typically 10 minutes, before rinsing thoroughly.
A second treatment is required after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched nymphs that survived the first application. The same medicated shampoo may be reused, following identical timing and rinsing procedures.
For individuals seeking non‑chemical alternatives, a silicone‑based lotion containing «dimethicone» creates a coating that suffocates lice and their eggs. Apply a generous layer, ensure complete scalp coverage, leave for 8 hours, then wash with a mild, non‑medicated shampoo to remove residue.
Supplementary steps enhance efficacy:
- Use a fine‑tooth nit comb on wet hair after each treatment; comb from scalp outward, cleaning the comb after each pass.
- Launder bedding, hats, scarves, and hair accessories in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and vehicle seats to remove stray hairs containing viable eggs.
- Avoid sharing personal items such as combs, brushes, or headwear until the infestation is resolved.
Regular shampoo without active ingredients does not kill lice or eggs but can be employed after the medicated wash to restore hair cleanliness and remove product buildup. Consistent adherence to the treatment schedule and the ancillary measures listed above provides the most reliable eradication outcome.