How can I remove lice eggs from hair? - briefly
Use a fine-toothed nit comb on wet, conditioned hair after applying a pediculicide or conditioner, combing from scalp to ends in small sections. Repeat the combing after 7–10 days to ensure all remaining eggs are removed.
How can I remove lice eggs from hair? - in detail
Nits cling tightly to hair shafts, making removal a meticulous process. Success depends on thorough combing, appropriate treatments, and careful follow‑up.
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Use a fine‑toothed nit comb on wet, conditioned hair. Apply a generous amount of a slippery conditioner or a dedicated lice‑removal lotion to reduce friction. Starting at the scalp, pull the comb through each section, moving outward to the tips. After each pass, wipe the comb on a white tissue to verify captured eggs and discard the debris. Repeat the procedure every 2–3 days for at least two weeks, covering the entire head each session.
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Apply an FDA‑approved pediculicide that contains pyrethrin, permethrin, or dimethicone. Follow the product label precisely: apply to dry hair, leave for the recommended duration, then rinse thoroughly. Some formulations require a second application after 7–10 days to target any eggs that survived the first treatment.
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For families preferring non‑chemical options, consider a heated oil method. Warm a small quantity of olive or coconut oil (temperature below 45 °C), saturate the scalp, and cover with a shower cap for 30 minutes. The heat loosens the cement that secures nits, allowing easier removal with the comb. Rinse the oil out before the next combing session.
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After each removal session, wash all bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water (≥ 60 °C) or place them in a sealed bag for two weeks. Vacuum upholstered furniture and carpets to capture stray eggs. Clean combs and brushes by soaking them in hot, soapy water for at least 10 minutes.
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Inspect the hair daily for residual nits. A single missed egg can hatch and restart the infestation. Use a bright light and a magnifying glass if necessary to spot tiny, translucent eggs attached close to the scalp.
Consistent application of these steps eliminates lice eggs efficiently and prevents re‑infestation.