How do you kill head -lice?

1. Use over-the-counter lice treatment products. Several effective lice treatments are available over the counter, including:

- Pyrethrins and piperonyl butoxide (Nix, Pronto, R&C)

- Permethrin (Nix, Elimite)

- Malathion (Ovide)

Be sure to follow the instructions on the product label carefully.

2. Use a lice comb. A lice comb is a fine-tooth comb that can remove lice and nits (lice eggs) from the hair. To use the lice comb:

- Wet the hair with warm water and conditioner.

- Comb the hair in small sections, starting at the roots and working your way down to the ends.

- Be sure to comb through the entire head, including the back of the neck and behind the ears.

- Repeat the process daily for 2 weeks.

3. Wash all bedding, clothing, and other items that may have come into contact with the infested person. Wash these items in hot water (at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit) and dry them on high heat. If you cannot wash an item, it can be placed in a sealed plastic bag for at least 2 weeks.

4. Avoid close contact with other people who have lice. This includes sharing hats, combs, brushes, and towels.

5. If you are still seeing lice after 2 weeks, see your doctor. Your doctor may prescribe a stronger lice treatment.

Prevention

The best way to prevent head lice is to avoid close contact with people who have lice. However, if you do come into contact with someone who has lice, there are several things you can do to reduce your risk of getting them:

- Check your hair and scalp regularly for lice and nits.

- Use a lice comb to comb your hair daily, especially if you have long hair.

- Wash your bedding, clothing, and other items that may have come into contact with the infested person in hot water (at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit) and dry them on high heat.

- Avoid sharing hats, combs, brushes, and towels with other people.

- Teach your children about head lice and how to avoid them.