How can I quickly get rid of lice and nits on long hair at home?

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How can I quickly get rid of lice and nits on long hair at home? - briefly
Treat the hair with a lice‑killing shampoo or conditioner, then comb the damp strands with a fine‑tooth nit comb, removing every louse and egg. Repeat the combing every 48‑72 hours for two weeks to ensure complete elimination.

How can I quickly get rid of lice and nits on long hair at home? - in detail
Lice infestations in lengthy hair require a systematic approach to eliminate both adult insects and their eggs. Follow these steps for swift results.

Select an effective treatment

Over‑the‑counter pediculicide: Choose a product containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin. Apply according to the label, ensuring full coverage from scalp to tips.
Non‑chemical option: Use a 20 % dimethicone lotion or a silicone‑based hair oil. These substances coat and suffocate the parasites without resistance concerns.

Prepare the hair

Wash hair with a regular shampoo to remove excess oil and debris.
Towel‑dry until damp but not dripping; excess moisture dilutes the treatment.

Apply the product

Distribute the solution evenly, using a wide‑tooth comb to push it through the entire length.
Cover the head with a plastic cap for the time specified (usually 10–15 minutes).

Comb out nits

While the product remains on the scalp, use a fine‑tooth nit comb. Start at the roots, pulling the comb straight through each strand to the ends.
Wipe the comb after each pass with a tissue soaked in alcohol.
Repeat the combing process for at least 30 minutes, covering the whole head.

Rinse and repeat

Rinse hair thoroughly with warm water.
Perform a second treatment after 7–10 days, using the same product or a plain conditioner with a nit comb. This eliminates any newly hatched lice before they mature.

Sanitize personal items

Soak combs, brushes, hair accessories, and hats in hot water (≥ 130 °F/54 °C) for 10 minutes.
Machine‑wash bedding, towels, and clothing in hot water; dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes.
Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.

Prevent re‑infestation

Advise all household members to inspect hair daily for the next three weeks.
Avoid sharing hair tools, hats, or pillows.
Maintain regular nit‑comb checks, especially after sleepovers or close contact.

By adhering to this protocol—effective product use, thorough combing, timely repeat treatment, and environmental decontamination—adults with long hair can eradicate lice and their eggs rapidly and safely within a two‑week window.