With what and how can lice and nits be eliminated? - briefly
Effective removal requires a pediculicide shampoo or lotion containing 1% permethrin or 0.5% malathion, applied to damp hair for the recommended duration, followed by thorough combing with a fine-toothed nit comb to extract nits. Repeat treatment after 7–10 days and wash all bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water to prevent reinfestation.
With what and how can lice and nits be eliminated? - in detail
Effective eradication of head‑lice infestations requires a combination of chemical, mechanical, and environmental actions.
First, apply an approved pediculicide. Over‑the‑counter products containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin are applied to dry hair, left for the recommended time (usually 10 minutes), then rinsed. Prescription options, such as 0.5 % malathion or 0.025 % ivermectin lotion, are used when resistance to OTC agents is suspected. Follow label instructions precisely; improper use reduces efficacy and increases risk of resistance.
Second, remove remaining eggs (nits) with a fine‑toothed nit comb. Perform wet combing: saturate hair with conditioner, divide into sections, and run the comb from scalp to tip, cleaning the comb after each pass. Repeat the process every 2–3 days for at least two weeks, covering the period during which newly hatched nymphs mature.
Third, treat the environment to prevent re‑infestation. Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks or exposed to a freezer at –20 °C for 24 hours. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard vacuum bags immediately after use.
Fourth, consider adjunctive measures. Applying a small amount of olive oil, coconut oil, or dimethicone to the scalp can suffocate lice, but these substances do not replace approved insecticides and must be followed by thorough combing. Avoid harmful remedies such as gasoline, kerosene, or nail polish remover, as they pose toxicity risks.
Finally, implement preventive practices. Encourage regular head inspections, especially in school settings, and educate caregivers about avoiding head‑to‑head contact and sharing personal items (combs, hats, headphones). Prompt identification and treatment of the first case in a group reduces the likelihood of an outbreak.
By integrating chemical treatment, diligent nit removal, environmental sanitation, and preventive education, complete elimination of head‑lice and their eggs can be achieved with minimal recurrence.