Lice Treatment

Self-Care at Home

• Head lice
  • Search for head lice when hair is wet. Use a fine-toothed comb (or a louse comb), clear tape (to stick on hair to pick up nits), a magnifying glass, and a strong light.
  • Wet combing should be done every 2-3 days over a 2-week period, with small sections of hair, working out from the scalp. Some call this "bug busting," and it can be very effective.
  • If lice are found, treat with an antilice agent and repeat in 7-10 days to kill newly hatched nits.
    • How to use antilice agents: Over-the-counter treatment is available and should be used first. If after 2 applications, lice are still present, then prescription anti-lice agents may be needed from your doctor. Apply the anti-lice agent to dry hair for the time listed on the product (usually 10 minutes). Shampoo and rinse hair and comb as directed with a fine-toothed comb. Repeat anti-lice treatment in 7-10 days to kill nits that may have hatched.
    • Nonprescription antilice agents include Nix Lotion (permethrin 1%) and Rid, A200, and Pronto shampoos (pyrethrin products).
  • Check all household members and treat only if lice or nits are seen.
  • If a child is younger than 2 years, comb to remove lice and nits but do not use antilice agents.
  • Hair conditioners may coat or cover the lice, so they should not be used before applying antilice agents.
  • Wash all bed linens and clothing that have been in contact with the infested person in the past 2 days. Use hot water and the hot cycle in the dryer.
  • Some recommend that water be at least 140°F to effectively kill the lice and nits. Most hot-water heaters are set at 120°F for child safety. This lower temperature may be effective.
  • All nonwashable items such as stuffed animals should be placed in plastic bags for 2 weeks then opened outdoors. Dry cleaning may be an alternative.
  • Disinfect combs and brushes in hot water or alcohol. Soak for more than 5 minutes in very hot water (greater than 131°F or 55°C).
  • Vacuum floors and furniture, especially couches and areas used by children. Throw away the vacuum bag immediately.
  • Herbal therapy and oil treatments have not been proven to work.
  • Do not use gasoline, kerosene, or oils. Burns have occurred.
  • Do not shave the person's head. This drastic measure is not necessary.
  • If lice are seen in a school-aged child, notify the school nurse or teacher in order to limit the spread.
• Body lice
  • Wash the body thoroughly.
  • Wash and dry all bed linens and clothes in hot cycles. Destroy what you can because these nits can survive longer without human contact.
  • Antilice agents are usually not needed if clothing is thrown away and bed linens are thoroughly washed.
  • Check all household members or close contacts. Treat them only if lice or nits are seen.
  • Vacuum floors and furniture. Throw the vacuum bag away immediately.
  • Chemical insecticide sprays in the home are not effective and not recommended.
  • Use over-the-counter antihistamines (such as diphenhydramine , Benadryl) for itching.
• Pubic lice
  • Treat with antilice agents and repeat in 7-10 days.
  • Remove nits with a fine-toothed comb.
  • Check all close contacts. Treat them only if lice or nits are found.
  • Wash and dry all clothes and bed linens in hot cycles.
  • Check eyelashes and eyebrows. If lice or nits are seen, apply petroleum jelly (Vaseline) twice daily for 8 days.
  • Use over-the-counter antihistamines (such as diphenhydramine, Benadryl) for itching.