How can I quickly get rid of lice in long hair? - briefly
Apply a 1% permethrin treatment to fully saturated hair, leave for the recommended duration, then rinse and comb with a fine-toothed lice comb while the hair remains wet. Repeat the process after 7–10 days and launder all bedding and personal items in hot water.
How can I quickly get rid of lice in long hair? - in detail
Rapid removal of head‑lice infestations in lengthy hair requires a systematic approach that combines chemical treatment, thorough combing, and environmental control.
Begin with a proven pediculicide. Choose a product containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % malathion, applied according to the label. Use enough shampoo or lotion to saturate the entire scalp and hair shaft, leaving it on for the specified time before rinsing. For resistant infestations, a prescription‑only ivermectin lotion may be more effective.
After the chemical step, follow with a wet‑combing session:
- Dampen hair with a generous amount of conditioner to reduce friction.
- Employ a fine‑toothed lice comb (0.2 mm spacing). Starting at the scalp, pull the comb through to the ends in a single, smooth motion.
- Wipe the comb on a white towel after each pass to spot live lice or nits.
- Repeat the process every 4–6 hours for the first 24 hours, then once daily for the next two days.
Remove all visible nits manually. Use a pair of fine tweezers to extract each egg from the hair shaft, ensuring the base of the nit is taken with it. This step is essential because nits can hatch within 7–10 days, re‑infesting the scalp.
Sanitize personal items and the environment:
- Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items (e.g., hats, hair accessories) in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag afterward.
Monitor the scalp for 2–3 weeks. If live lice reappear after the initial treatment, repeat the pediculicide application after 7 days, following the same combing protocol. Persistent cases may require a dermatologist’s assessment for alternative therapies.
By adhering to this sequence—effective medication, meticulous combing, complete nit removal, and rigorous environmental decontamination—lice can be eliminated from long hair swiftly and with minimal risk of recurrence.