What Kills Lice? Treatment Options

What Kills Lice? Understanding Treatment Options and Safety is an educational guide for people researching head lice. It focuses on practical hair inspection, label-directed treatment and sensible family care.

For this topic—What Kills Lice? Understanding Treatment Options and Safety—Base cleaning on recent use and contact with hair, then follow the item’s normal care instructions. Avoid unnecessary chemical sprays or discarding belongings.

Treatment Depends on the Product

OTC lice medicines use specific active ingredients and directions. A product should be appropriate for human use and labeled for head lice.

Permethrin 1%

Permethrin 1% is an OTC active ingredient used in certain head-lice treatments. Follow its current Drug Facts label.

Avoid Household Chemicals

Bleach, disinfectants, alcohol and cleaning products are not substitutes for a human lice treatment.

Nits Require Attention

A product's effect on live lice does not mean every egg should be assumed to be eliminated. Follow directions concerning nit removal and repeat treatment.

When Treatment Fails

Persistent live lice after appropriate label-directed use should prompt a discussion with a healthcare professional.

Important Reminder