What works well against lice and nits? - briefly
A pediculicide shampoo with 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % malathion, followed by meticulous combing with a fine‑toothed nit comb, removes live lice and most nits. Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water and repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eradicate any surviving eggs.
What works well against lice and nits? - in detail
Effective control of head lice and their eggs relies on chemical agents, mechanical removal, and environmental sanitation.
Chemical products approved for topical use include permethrin 1 % lotion, pyrethrins combined with piperonyl‑butoxide, and malathion 0.5 % solution. These agents act on the nervous system of the insects, causing rapid paralysis. Prescription options such as benzyl alcohol 5 % lotion, ivermectin 0.5 % lotion, and spinosad 0.9 % suspension provide alternatives when resistance to over‑the‑counter formulations is suspected. Application instructions must be followed precisely: apply to dry hair, leave for the recommended duration (usually 10 minutes), then rinse thoroughly.
Mechanical strategies complement chemical treatment. A fine‑toothed nit comb, used on wet, conditioned hair, removes viable lice and detached eggs. Repeating the combing process every 2–3 days for at least two weeks eliminates newly hatched nymphs before they mature.
Environmental measures reduce re‑infestation risk. Wash clothing, towels, and bedding in water at 130 °F (54 °C) or, if unavailable, seal items in a plastic bag for two weeks. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats to capture stray insects.
Because lice populations develop resistance, a second treatment is recommended 7–10 days after the initial application, regardless of product used. This timing targets any survivors that emerged from eggs after the first exposure.
Safety considerations include limiting use of neurotoxic agents in children under two years, pregnant women, and individuals with known skin sensitivities. Patch testing on a small scalp area can identify adverse reactions before full‑scale treatment.
In summary, a comprehensive approach—combining properly applied pediculicides, systematic nit combing, and thorough cleaning of personal items—delivers the most reliable eradication of head lice and their eggs.