1. Use Head Lice Shampoo
Head lice shampoos that include pirperonyl butoxide or permethrin are the standard of care for treating lice and their eggs. These shampoos can be purchased over the counter. Brand names include A-200, Pronto, R&C, Rid, Triple X and Nix. They require you to use a special shampoo and then comb out the lice and eggs. In some cases, re-treatment may be required seven to 10 days later, due to the hatching of surviving eggs. Careful post-treatment inspection will help prevent the risk of recurrence.
2. Have a Specialist Remove the Lice and Eggs
If you want to avoid the use of harsh, medicated shampoos, head lice specialists can be contacted to remove individual lice and eggs. These specialists will remove head lice and eggs with tweezers and lice combs, which can take up to four hours depending on the extent and degree of the condition.
3. Treat Your Clothing and Other Belongings
Make sure to also treat your clothing, bedding and other belongings, such as headbands, sweatbands and stuffed animals. Clothing, bedding and other fabrics should be washed in hot water and placed in the dryer under high heat to kill the lice and their eggs. Also, plastic items should be washed in hot water and inspected to make sure no lice or eggs are present.
4. Check Your Head
Frequent inspections, especially in the case of small children, can prevent the occurrence of lice. After an outbreak has occurred, make sure to check for lice and eggs 10 days post-treatment. By having your head inspected, you reduce the risk of recurrence.
5. Don't Share Hats, Combs and Brushes
Lice can be transmitted from one individual to another, so don't share hats, combs, brushes or other hair accessories with other individuals. If your friend has lice, this will keep you from getting them. If you have them, this practice will help you control the head lice and keep them from spreading.
