There are three types of lice: head lice, body lice and pubic lice. Of the three types, head lice are the most common, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. All lice infestations can cause extreme itching and skin reactions due to the itching, which can appear as red bumps or just as a rash. The symptoms will depend on how hard you scratch and how your skin reacts to the lice. There are various methods to help you control and eliminate all types of lice infestations.
Step 1
Identify the lice. Symptoms of head, body and pubic lice include intense itching and possibly a skin reaction. Part your hair or divide it into sections, and ask a health care provider or trusted friend to take a look. The eggs are usually attached to the hair strands, relatively close to the base of the hair shafts. Sometimes you can even see lice crawling around.
Step 2
Purchase an over-the-counter head lice shampoo kit. The kit will typically consist of a special shampoo that destroys the lice and eggs, along with a fine-toothed comb. The comb will help remove the eggs from your hair after shampooing. Always follow the instructions provided in the kit, or follow your health care provider's suggestions. Proper application is imperative so that you do not suffer a chemical burn or skin irritation.
Step 3
Remove all eggs with the fine-toothed comb after shampooing. Then, turn off any ceiling or regular lights, and draw the curtains if it's daytime. Turn on the black light and hold it to your scalp. Ask your helper to check if there are any lice. Your helper may have to divide your hair into multiple sections to ensure all of the eggs have been removed.
Step 4
Wash all linens, clothing and hard surfaces in your house. Any clothing or household linens should be machine-washed in hot water -- at least 103 degrees F -- to ensure all lice and eggs have been destroyed, then machine-dried as well. If some items cannot be washed in a machine, seal them in a plastic bag for a minimum of 14 days. Lice typically die within seven days when they fall off a host, but if they laid eggs, the eggs could still be alive after seven days. All will be dead within 14 days, according to MedlinePlus.
Things You'll Need
- Over-the-counter head lice shampoo
- Fine-toothed comb
- Black light
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