What will help get rid of lice and nits? - briefly
Apply a pediculicide shampoo and thoroughly comb the hair with a fine-toothed nit comb to eliminate live insects and their eggs. Repeat the process after 7–10 days to remove any newly hatched lice.
What will help get rid of lice and nits? - in detail
Effective eradication of head lice and their eggs requires a combination of chemical, mechanical, and environmental strategies.
Chemical agents applied to the scalp are the most common first line of defense. Over‑the‑counter preparations containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrins with piperonyl‑butoxide kill live insects within minutes. For resistant infestations, prescription‑only products such as 0.9 % spinosad, 0.5 % malathion, or 0.2 % ivermectin lotion provide higher efficacy, eliminating up to 95 % of lice after a single application. All treatments must be left on the hair for the manufacturer‑specified duration, typically 10 minutes, then rinsed thoroughly.
Mechanical removal complements chemical treatment. Wet combing with a fine‑toothed nit comb, performed on damp, conditioned hair, dislodges both live lice and attached nits. Repeating the combing process every 2–3 days for at least two weeks ensures removal of newly hatched insects before they mature.
Environmental decontamination reduces reinfestation risk. Items that contact the head—pillowcases, hats, scarves, hairbrushes—should be washed in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dried on high heat. Non‑washable objects can be sealed in airtight plastic bags for two weeks, the duration of the lice life cycle. Vacuuming carpets and upholstery removes stray nits and dead insects.
Adjunctive measures enhance overall success. Applying a silicone‑based conditioner before combing reduces hair friction, facilitating nit extraction. Avoiding immediate re‑application of hair products (gels, sprays) after treatment prevents interference with insecticide penetration. Regular inspection of all household members, followed by prompt treatment of any additional cases, prevents cross‑contamination.
A systematic approach—initial insecticide application, followed by diligent nit combing, and thorough environmental cleaning—provides the most reliable resolution of head‑lice infestations.