With what is it best to cure lice? - briefly
The most effective remedy is a topical pediculicide—commonly 1 % permethrin or dimethicone—applied as directed, followed by meticulous fine‑tooth combing to eliminate nits.
With what is it best to cure lice? - in detail
Effective lice eradication relies on a combination of pharmacologic agents, mechanical removal, and environmental sanitation.
First‑line chemical products contain synthetic pyrethroids such as permethrin 1 % or pyrethrins combined with piperonyl butoxide. Application follows manufacturer instructions: apply to dry hair, leave for ten minutes, then rinse. These formulations kill most nymphs and adults but may be less effective where resistance has developed.
Second‑line options include malathion 0.5 % lotion, which remains active against resistant strains. Apply to damp hair, cover with a plastic cap for eight hours, then wash out. Prescription treatments such as spinosad 0.9 % (single application) and oral ivermectin (200 µg/kg, single dose) provide alternatives when over‑the‑counter agents fail.
Mechanical removal employs a fine‑toothed nit comb. After saturating hair with a conditioner, comb from scalp to ends in sections, rinsing the comb after each pass. Repeating the process every 2–3 days for two weeks eliminates residual eggs.
Natural substances can supplement chemical therapy. Tea‑tree oil (5 % solution) and neem oil (10 % solution) possess insecticidal properties; apply to hair, leave for 30 minutes, then rinse. Evidence for standalone efficacy is limited, so these should accompany a proven pediculicide.
Environmental measures prevent reinfestation. Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥60 °C) or dry‑clean them. Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard vacuum bags afterward.
A typical treatment protocol:
- Apply a pyrethroid or malathion product as directed.
- Perform wet combing immediately after the first application and repeat every 48 hours for three sessions.
- If live lice persist after 7 days, switch to a prescription agent (spinosad or ivermectin).
- Implement laundry and cleaning steps concurrently.
Monitoring involves daily scalp inspection for live insects and nymphal movement. Absence of live lice after 10 days confirms successful eradication.
Adhering to this integrated approach maximizes cure rates while minimizing the risk of resistance and reinfestation.