To remove lice from hair permanently, a combination of thorough treatment and careful follow-up is essential. Here are the key steps and methods based on expert sources:
Confirm the Presence of Lice
- Check for live lice and nits (lice eggs) using a fine-toothed detection comb under good lighting
Treatment Options
1. Wet Combing
- Wash hair with shampoo and apply plenty of conditioner.
- Use a fine-toothed nit comb to comb through the hair from roots to ends.
- Repeat combing on days 1, 5, 9, and 13 to catch newly hatched lice.
- Continue checking until day 17 to ensure all lice are removed
2. Medicated Lotions and Shampoos
- Use FDA-approved treatments such as Spinosad (Natroba), Malathion, or Ivermectin, which kill lice and nits and usually do not require repeated treatments
- Follow product instructions carefully regarding application time and rinsing.
- Some treatments may need a second application after 7–9 days if lice persist
3. Natural and Home Remedies (Supplementary)
- Apply mixtures of essential oils (e.g., tea tree, ylang ylang) with carrier oils like coconut oil to suffocate lice; leave on scalp for about 20 minutes before washing out
- Use vinegar diluted with water to help loosen nits from hair shafts
- Smothering agents like olive oil can be used to stun lice, making combing easier, but are less reliable alone
Prevent Reinfestation
- Wash all clothing, bedding, hats, and hair accessories in hot water (at least 140°F/60°C) to kill lice and eggs
- Clean combs and brushes by soaking in bleach or vinegar solution or boiling for 10 minutes
- Check and treat all close contacts simultaneously to prevent spread
Important Notes
- Avoid using treatments not recommended by health authorities, such as permethrin repellents or electric combs, as they are ineffective or unproven
- Do not use medicated lotions preventatively, as they can irritate the scalp
- Persistent infestations may require consultation with a healthcare provider for prescription treatments
By combining effective treatment (medicated or wet combing), thorough removal of lice and nits, and environmental cleaning, lice can be removed permanently and reinfestation prevented. Regular monitoring and repeated combing are key to success
