How can I fight lice on a head with long hair? - briefly
Apply a pediculicide shampoo, then comb wet, conditioned hair with a fine-tooth nit comb, repeating the process every 7–10 days. Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water and vacuum the environment to eliminate surviving eggs.
How can I fight lice on a head with long hair? - in detail
Treating head‑lice infestations on long hair requires a systematic approach that combines chemical or physical treatment, thorough combing, and environmental decontamination.
Begin with a suitable pediculicide. Choose a product that contains 1 % permethrin, 0.5 % pyrethrin, or a dimethicone‑based lotion, depending on local resistance patterns. Apply the preparation according to the label, ensuring full coverage from scalp to the tips of each strand. Leave the solution on for the prescribed duration, then rinse completely.
After the chemical step, use a fine‑toothed nit comb (0.2 mm spacing) to remove live insects and nits. Divide the hair into sections of 2–3 inches, secure each with a clip, and comb from the scalp outward. Wipe the comb on a white paper towel after each pass to monitor removal. Repeat the combing process at least twice, with a 7‑day interval, because newly hatched nits may emerge after the initial treatment.
If chemical agents are contraindicated, opt for a physical method. Apply a silicone‑based oil (e.g., olive or mineral oil) to saturate the hair, cover with a shower cap for 30 minutes, then comb out lice and nits with the nit comb. The oil suffocates the parasites and loosens adhesive shells, allowing mechanical removal.
Environmental control limits re‑infestation. Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels used within the past 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat. Seal non‑washable items in sealed plastic bags for two weeks. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and vehicle seats to capture any stray lice.
For persistent cases, a second treatment cycle may be necessary. Follow the same protocol after 7–10 days, and re‑examine the scalp after 14 days to confirm eradication.
Maintain vigilance: inspect hair weekly for at least one month, especially after contact with school or daycare environments. Prompt detection prevents recurrence and limits spread to others.