Pubic lice can be an embarrassing condition. Infestation occurs most often through body-to-body contact with an infected person, but the louse can live in bedding, clothing and on towels for seven to 10 days. Pubic lice are parasites which cause rash, irritation and itching for their hosts and can be passed on to sexual partners and any person sharing bedding or towels. Eliminating these pests is a priority as the lice will multiply every seven to 10 days and will not die out on their own. Three methods are presented here to help eradicate the infestation.
Over the Counter
Multiple over-the-counter treatments are available for the ridding of pubic lice. Easily obtainable at local drugstores, these contain 1 percent permethrin or pyrethrins and piperonyl butoxide. The preparations come in a mousse or shampoo form and must be applied to the affected area for an instructed time and then rinsed. A nit comb, a small fine-toothed comb, is necessary to remove eggs and pubescent lice after treatment. Repeated treatment may be needed if infestation persists.
Carefully read all the instructions included in the product before using.
All bedding, towels and underwear needs to be washed in hot water and dried on high heat. Special laundry detergents designed to kill parasites are also available.
Prescription
When over-the-counter methods fail, it is recommended that you see your physician. Lindane is a insecticide that requires a doctor's prescription and is only used when other methods of louse removal have failed. Considered a second line of defense, Lindane is used as a last resort and is reserved for persistent infestations and chemical resistant lice. Try over-the-counter or natural remedies before requesting a prescription from your doctor.
Lindane is available in shampoo and lotion forms and is applied to the affected area for a prescribed amount of time and then must be rinsed thoroughly. Misuse of the medication can lead to rashes and skin irritation. Use of a nit comb is still required for eggs and pubescent lice.
Herbal
Select natural herbs and oils contain insecticidal properties. The combination of rosemary, neem, tea tree oil and lavender act as an antiseptic and can ward off pubic lice. Combine two drops of each and apply to the affected area. You will need to reapply daily two to three times to prevent reinfestation. Manual removal of the nits is necessary.
Vitamin E oil applied to the pubic region and the use of a nit comb can eliminate the lice in two to three daily treatments. Vitamin E will also soothe the rash caused by the parasites.
Removing the hair in the affected areas can help but not eliminate the lice completely. You will still need to use a treatment application.
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