How can lice and nits be combed out? - briefly
Use a fine‑toothed nit comb on wet, conditioned hair, starting at the scalp and pulling each section toward the ends while cleaning the comb after every stroke. Repeat daily for a week and launder bedding and clothing in hot water to eliminate any remaining eggs.
How can lice and nits be combed out? - in detail
Removing head‑lice and their attached eggs requires a systematic approach that combines proper equipment, preparation, and meticulous combing.
Begin with a fine‑toothed lice comb, ideally 0.2 mm spacing, made of metal or durable plastic. Soak the comb in hot water for several minutes, then dry. Use a mild, non‑oil‑based conditioner to loosen the adhesive that secures eggs to hair shafts; apply a generous amount, leave it for 5–10 minutes, and then rinse lightly, leaving a thin layer to aid slide.
Divide the hair into sections no wider than one inch. Starting at the scalp, hold the hair taut and run the comb from the roots to the tips in a single, smooth motion. After each pass, wipe the comb on a white paper towel or rinse in a bowl of water, then inspect for lice or eggs. Repeat the process on the same section until no insects are visible, then move to the next section.
Complete the routine on the entire head, then repeat the entire combing session after 24 hours to capture any newly hatched lice that were missed initially. Follow with a second repeat 7–10 days later to break the life cycle.
Maintain hygiene to prevent reinfestation:
- Wash bedding, hats, scarves, and hair accessories in hot water (≥60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in airtight bags for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture.
If an infestation persists after three thorough combing cycles, consider adjunct treatments such as dimethicone‑based lotions, but continue combing to remove residual eggs.
Consistent application of the described method eliminates both adult insects and their ovoids, providing a reliable, chemical‑minimal solution.