Lice are parasitic insects that feed on human blood. Lice most often live in hair on the head and body. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention reports three types of lice--head lice, body lice and pubic lice. Head lice are the most common and develop on the scalp; they are easiest to spot at the base of the neck and around the ears. Lice spread through human to human contact. To eliminate lice, both the people and home should receive treatment.
Shampoo
Several over-the-counter shampoos, such as RID and Nix, kill lice. Each product works differently but most involve the application of the shampoo or lotion and leaving it on the hair for a set amount of time to kill the lice and eggs before rinsing the hair. Repeat treatments may be necessary up to 10 days after initial treatment. Shampoos and lotions are safe for most adults and older children but not recommended for children under two years old.
Combing Wet Hair
For children under two or those who cannot use shampoos, combing wet hair with a fine toothed comb is another way to treat the problem. Lice and eggs become caught in the teeth of the comb, allowing them to be removed. Lice found on hair shafts often appear as black dots and eggs look like tiny white or see-through bumps attached to the hair follicle towards the scalp. Hair should be combed every three to four days for two weeks. Hair should be combed after shampooing as well to remove the dead lice and eggs. Most shampoos come with a comb but any fine toothed comb should work.
Vinegar
According to the MayoClinic.com, after shampooing, a rag soaked in vinegar will help remove the lice. People can treat hair by running a vinegar-soaked rag down 1-inch sections or they can soak all their hair in vinegar for a few minutes before combing it through and rinsing.
Household Cleansing
Lice can live for a time on objects such as toys, bedding and furniture. Kill any remaining parasites by washing all contaminated items including sheets, stuffed animals, clothing and hats with hot, soapy water and drying them on high heat. Placing unwashable items in airtight bags for two weeks will ensure that the lice die without access to humans. Washing combs and brushes with alcohol or boiling them in water can kill any lice or eggs. Vacuuming floors and furniture well will help get rid of lice still lingering in cushions and fabrics. The MayoClinic.com recommends placing plastic or drop clothes over furniture for two weeks to create a barrier between any leftover lice and their food source, human blood. Plastic should not be used in households with toddlers or small children as they may get caught under the plastic and suffocate.
