What to use to treat lice? - briefly
A pediculicide such as 1 % permethrin shampoo or 0.5 % malathion lotion is the standard chemical option. Manual removal with a fine‑toothed comb after treatment eliminates remaining nits.
What to use to treat lice? - in detail
Effective lice eradication relies on a combination of appropriate agents, precise application, and follow‑up measures.
First‑line chemical options include permethrin 1 % lotion, applied to dry hair for ten minutes before rinsing, and pyrethrin‑piperonyl butoxide shampoo, used similarly. Both are approved by health authorities for single‑use treatment and have documented efficacy against head‑lice populations.
Second‑line prescription products consist of malathion 0.5 % liquid, applied for eight to twelve hours, and ivermectin 0.5 % lotion, left on for ten minutes. These agents are reserved for cases where resistance to over‑the‑counter formulations is confirmed.
Non‑chemical alternatives comprise:
- Dimethicone‑based silicone lotions that coat insects, immobilizing them without neurotoxic action.
- Heated air devices that raise scalp temperature to 50 °C for several minutes, killing lice and nits.
- Manual removal using fine‑toothed nit combs on wet, conditioned hair, repeated every two to three days for two weeks.
Safety considerations:
- Verify age restrictions; permethrin is approved for children six months and older, while malathion is limited to children two years and older.
- Avoid application on broken skin or irritated scalp.
- Observe for allergic reactions such as rash or itching; discontinue use and seek medical advice if symptoms develop.
Resistance management:
- Rotate between permethrin and pyrethrin formulations only after confirming susceptibility.
- Combine chemical treatment with nit combing to reduce the likelihood of surviving eggs.
Environmental control:
- Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in plastic bags for two weeks to starve remaining insects.
Follow‑up protocol:
- Re‑treat after seven days to eliminate newly hatched lice.
- Conduct a second combing session 10–14 days post‑initial treatment to remove residual nits.
Adhering to these guidelines maximizes eradication success while minimizing adverse effects and recurrence.