Human Lice Control & Removal Guide
(Head lice, Body lice, Nits)*Pediculus humanus capitis* / *P. humanus humanus* / *Pthirus pubis*
How They Get In
- Close person-to-person contact: head lice spread primarily through head-to-head contact. School-age children transmit during play, photos, and classroom activities.
- Shared personal items: combs, brushes, hats, towels, pillowcases, hair accessories, and headphones.
- Shared bedding: sharing a bed, pillows, or blankets.
- Crowded settings: daycare, schools, summer camps, military barracks.
How to Get Rid of Them
- Medical Treatment (Primary): Use approved lice treatment products — topical lotions and shampoos containing permethrin or pyrethrins. Apply thoroughly to dry hair and scalp as directed; leave on for the specified time before rinsing. Check for live lice 8-12 hours after treatment. Repeat treatment at 7-9 days to kill newly hatched nymphs.;
- Nit Combing: Before and after treatment, use a fine-toothed nit comb (tooth spacing 0.2mm or less) to systematically comb from scalp to hair ends in sections. Wipe the comb on a white tissue after each pass to check for lice and nits. Combing is the key supplementary method for removing dead lice and eggs.;
- Environmental Cleaning: Wash all contacted bedding, clothing, towels, and hats in water 54 C or above. Machine dry on high heat for at least 20-30 minutes. Items that cannot be washed should be dry-cleaned or sealed in a plastic bag for at least 2 weeks.;
- Item Isolation: Soak combs and brushes in 54 C+ water for 10 minutes. Vacuum sofas, car seats, and headrests thoroughly. Do NOT use treatment products on uninfested household members.;
- Prevention: Notify close contacts (classmates, family members) to check for lice. Avoid head-to-head contact. Do not share combs, hats, towels, or bedding. Continue weekly nit combing checks for 2-3 weeks after treatment to confirm clearance. For body lice, improve personal hygiene conditions — change and hot-wash underwear and bedding daily.
Prevention & Follow-Up
Avoid head-to-head contact. Don't share combs, hats, towels, or bedding. Check hair with a lice comb regularly and treat right away if you find lice. Wash exposed clothing and bedding in hot water (at least 130°F / 54°C) and dry on high heat. Seal items that can't be washed in a plastic bag for at least 2 weeks.