How to Use Lice Treatment Shampoo

Lice shampoos are designed to kill adult lice and nits. Pyrethrin- and permethrin-based shampoos are the most common shampoo treatments. In instances when over-the-counter products fail, your physician will prescribe a stronger lice shampoo. Applying lice shampoo correctly is essential to help remove lice. Not following instructions can lead to re-infestation. Prescription lice shampoos also need special care, as they can be potentially toxic.

Things You'll Need

• Over-the-counter lice shampoo
• Towel
• Water
• Nit comb
• Ovide
• Shower cap
• Shampoo

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Instructions

OTC Shampoos

• 1

  Remove your shirt or use a towel to drape over your shoulders prior to shampoo application. Apply an over-the-counter (OTC) shampoo to your hair.

• 2

  Work from your scalp toward the ends of your hair. Leave the shampoo on for 10 minutes, as suggested by the Minnesota Department of Health. Add water to your hair and massage the shampoo into your hair for one minute.

• 3

  Rinse your hair with water. Use a nit comb to remove nits and dead lice while your hair is wet. Put on a clean shirt.

• 4

  Use a second application after one week. A second shampooing with OTC lice shampoos will help kill any immature lice that have recently hatched.

Ovide

• 5

  Apply Ovide to dry hair and leave it on for at least 12 hours, as recommended by the website Ask Dr. Sears. Avoid getting Ovide on other parts of your skin and wash your hands after using the shampoo.

• 6

  Use a shower cap or place a towel over your pillow if you sleep with the shampoo overnight. After the shampoo has been on your hair for at least 12 hours, clean your hair with regular shampoo and water.

• 7

  Comb through your hair with a nit comb and pick out dead lice and nits. Repeat an Ovide application 10 days after the initial treatment if lice are still present.