How and with what can lice be removed at home? - briefly
Apply a fine‑toothed nit comb to wet, conditioned hair after coating the scalp and strands with a petroleum‑based or silicone oil, then wash the comb in hot, soapy water and repeat the combing every 2–3 days for two weeks. For a chemical‑free alternative, spread a mixture of vinegar and olive oil, comb out the lice, and launder bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water.
How and with what can lice be removed at home? - in detail
Lice infestations can be eliminated at home using a combination of mechanical removal, chemical agents, and environmental cleaning.
First, confirm the presence of live insects and nits by parting hair close to the scalp and inspecting each strand. Use a fine‑toothed lice comb (0.2 mm spacing) on damp hair; the water softens the glue that holds nits to the shaft, allowing the comb to capture both lice and eggs. Comb from the scalp outward, wiping the comb after each pass. Perform this process every 2–3 days for at least two weeks, because newly hatched nits become mobile after 7–10 days.
Chemical options include over‑the‑counter pediculicides containing permethrin (1 %) or pyrethrin with piperonyl butoxide. Apply according to the product label, leave on for the recommended time (usually 10 minutes), then rinse thoroughly. A second application is required after 7–10 days to eradicate any survivors that emerged from eggs after the first treatment.
Natural substances can serve as adjuncts. Apply a mixture of equal parts 100 % tea tree oil and carrier oil (e.g., coconut oil) to the scalp, leave for 30 minutes, then comb out nits. Apply a 10 % vinegar solution to loosen nits before combing. These agents do not replace mechanical removal but may reduce lice activity.
Environmental measures prevent re‑infestation. Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat. Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard vacuum bags immediately.
A concise protocol:
- Wet hair, apply conditioner, and comb with a fine lice comb.
- Rinse, dry, and repeat combing every 2–3 days for 14 days.
- Apply a pediculicide or natural oil treatment as directed; repeat after 7–10 days.
- Wash or isolate all personal items; clean surroundings thoroughly.
Adherence to the schedule and thorough cleaning of the environment eliminates the infestation and reduces the risk of recurrence.