How can I quickly remove lice and nits from long hair at home? - briefly
Treat the hair with a fast‑acting lice spray or a vinegar‑water rinse, then comb it thoroughly with a fine‑toothed nit comb from the scalp to the tips, repeating every 30 minutes for two hours. Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water to eliminate any remaining eggs.
How can I quickly remove lice and nits from long hair at home? - in detail
Eliminating head‑lice infestations in long hair requires a systematic approach that combines chemical or natural treatment, thorough combing, and environmental sanitation.
First, choose a treatment. Over‑the‑counter shampoos containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin work quickly; apply according to the label, leave for the recommended time, then rinse. For families preferring non‑chemical options, a mixture of 2 % dimethicone or a solution of 20 % white vinegar applied to damp hair can suffocate the insects. Ensure the product covers the scalp and the entire length of the hair.
Second, remove the surviving insects and eggs with a fine‑toothed nit comb (spacing 0.2–0.3 mm). Follow these steps:
- Divide hair into 2‑inch sections.
- Starting at the scalp, pull the comb through each section toward the ends, wiping the teeth with a tissue after each pass.
- Repeat the process at least three times per section, re‑wetting the hair if it dries.
- Collect all debris in a disposable container and discard.
Third, repeat the entire procedure after 7–10 days. This interval targets any newly hatched nits that survived the initial treatment.
Fourth, decontaminate personal items. Wash all bedding, towels, and clothing used within the past 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat. Seal combs, brushes, and hair accessories in a plastic bag for 48 hours or soak them in hot, soapy water for 30 minutes. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats to remove stray lice.
Fifth, limit re‑infestation risk. Advise affected individuals to avoid sharing hats, hair accessories, or pillows until the treatment cycle completes. Regularly inspect hair every 2–3 days during the follow‑up period.
By applying an effective lice‑killing solution, performing meticulous combing, repeating treatment after a week, and sanitizing the environment, most infestations in long hair can be resolved within a short timeframe.