How can lice and nits be eliminated at home with long hair? - briefly
Apply a pediculicide shampoo, keep hair wet and conditioned, then comb thoroughly with a fine‑toothed «nit comb»; repeat the combing every 3–4 days for two weeks. Wash all bedding, clothing and personal items in hot water and vacuum upholstered surfaces to remove any remaining eggs.
How can lice and nits be eliminated at home with long hair? - in detail
Eliminating head‑lice infestations from long hair requires a systematic approach that combines chemical or natural treatment, thorough combing, and environmental sanitation.
Begin with a complete assessment of the scalp. Separate sections of hair using clips or hair ties, then examine the roots with a fine‑toothed magnifying lice comb. Identify live insects and attached eggs (nits) to gauge the severity of the problem.
Apply a suitable pediculicide or natural remedy according to the product instructions. Common options include:
- Over‑the‑counter permethrin 1 % lotion – apply to dry hair, saturate scalp, leave for the recommended time, then rinse.
- Dimethicone‑based silicone oil – suffocates lice and loosens nits; apply generously, cover with a shower cap for 10–15 minutes, then wash out.
- Essential‑oil blend (tea‑tree, lavender, neem) diluted in a carrier oil – apply to scalp, leave for 30 minutes, rinse thoroughly.
After treatment, remove nits mechanically. Use a metal lice comb with 0.2 mm teeth, working from the scalp outward. Process each hair segment in small sections, pulling the comb through the hair at least ten times per pass. Rinse the comb after each stroke to prevent re‑infestation. Repeat the combing session every 2–3 days for a total of three rounds, as newly hatched lice emerge from surviving eggs.
Sanitize personal items and the immediate environment to prevent re‑contamination:
- Wash all bedding, towels, and clothing used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
- Clean combs, brushes, and hair accessories with hot, soapy water or an alcohol solution.
Monitor the scalp for a minimum of four weeks. Absence of live lice and newly laid nits confirms successful eradication. If live insects persist after two treatment cycles, consider a prescription‑strength product or consult a healthcare professional.
«Effective elimination of lice and their eggs from long hair depends on consistent treatment, meticulous combing, and rigorous environmental control».