How to Kill Head Lice & Crabs

Lice and crabs are parasitic, wingless insects that live off the blood of their host. Lice is transferred from person to person by close, direct contact. Head lice is commonly spread by sharing brushes, hats, hair ties and headphones. Crabs are transmitted by sexual contact. An infestation can cause extreme itching, and both lice and crabs are difficult to get rid of once they have established themselves. Removal of these pests requires time and work.

Things You'll Need

• Nit comb
• Lice treatment solution

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Instructions

Chemical Removal

• 1

  Brush through the hair using a nit comb. Removing the nits by hand is the safest method of removal. For head lice, ask for assistance and have someone go through your hair one section at a time with a magnifying glass. Use a hair band to separate sections. Sit in a bright light and remove the eggs, which will appear grey and shiny. For crabs, shave the public area to remove all hair. Removing the lice will be much easier.

• 2

  Apply a louse treatment solution to the head and genitals. They can be found at any drug store, grocery store or most major department stores. Common names include Nix and Rid.

• 3

  Place towels around the eyes and clothes to prevent contact with the chemicals.

• 4

  Apply the lice killing shampoo directly to dry hair. Wet hair can dilute the formula. Allow the shampoo to sit for 10 minutes. If you have shaved your pubic hair then apply the product directly to the skin in the infected area.

• 5

  Rinse the shampoo with warm water. Rub gently to form a lather while you are rinsing.

• 6

  Comb the hair gently with a nit comb. Go through the hair again to remove any nits and lice that may have been missed.

• 7

  Apply a second application of lice removal in 7 to 10 days to remove any lice that may have been missed during the first application. This will prevent re-infection.

• 8

  Use a hair dryer on your hair. Heat can kill any lice and crabs that remain in the hair or on the body.

• 9

  Wash all bed linens, underwear and clothing in hot water. Vacuum the area throughly to remove any lice or crabs that may have fallen to the floor.

• 10

  Avoid sex until all signs of crabs have been removed. Wait until after the second application of lice removal.