Pubic lice, also called crabs, are tiny parasites that live off the blood of a host and are most often found in the genital region, according to MayoClinic.com. Crabs are a different creature than head or body lice and are most often contracted through sexual intercourse. Removal of crabs requires treatment of adult crabs and their eggs, called nits.
RID
RID is a three-step lice removal product that can be purchased over-the-counter without a prescription from a healthcare provider. The shampoo containing 4 percent piperonyl butoxide and pyrethrum extract is used on dry hair on day 1 and day 10. It should be left in the hair for 10 minutes, but not longer. The instructions advise to avoid using near the vagina, but it is indicated for use on pubic hair. The second step in the RID treatment is a lice and egg comb and gel that ensures all the eggs are eliminated. Because crabs "glue" their eggs to hairs, after rinsing out the shampoo, combing nits out of the hair is essential to prevent re-infestation once the eggs hatch. The final step in the RID treatment requires the use of a household spray to eliminate lice and nits from non-washables such as furniture, bedding and cars. RID can be purchased online and at retailers.
ProntoPlus Complete Lice Removal System
ProntoPlus Complete Lice Removal System is another three-step treatment that can be purchased online or at drugstores nationwide without a prescription. It uses a pesticide shampoo to kill crabs, as well as a specially-designed comb and gel to remove dead lice and nits. The final step includes a household spray to eliminate lice on furniture to prevent re-infestation. ProntoPlus is available online and at retailers.
Genitrex
Genitrex is a homeopathic pubic lice treatment product that does not use pesticides. According to ABCHomeopathy.com, healing with homeopathics is based on the premise that "like cures like;" therefore, the ingredients in this product are intended to cause the same symptoms that they are trying to cure, only in much smaller amounts. The active ingredients include homeopathics Apis Mellifica, Carbolicum Acidum and Rosmarinus Officinalis. Other ingredients include aloe vera, helpful in treating skin dryness, inflammation and irritation; anise oil, a botanical oil known for its antiseptic properties; ylang ylang oil, a fragrant essential oil beneficial in supporting skin health; and lavender oil, an essential oil known for its skin-soothing and antimicrobial properties. Genitrex is specifically formulated for pubic lice and can be purchased on the manufacturer's website.
