How can lice and nits be quickly removed from a child with long hair at home? - briefly
Apply a quick‑acting lice treatment (e.g., a medicated shampoo or lotion) as directed, then comb the wet hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb, section by section, from the scalp to the ends. Repeat the combing and a second treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate any newly hatched insects.
How can lice and nits be quickly removed from a child with long hair at home? - in detail
Detecting an infestation early saves time. Examine the scalp with a fine-tooth comb, pulling sections of hair away from the skin. Look for live insects (approximately 2–3 mm, gray‑brown) and oval, yellowish eggs attached within 1 cm of the scalp.
Prepare the area. Gather a metal or plastic lice comb with 0.2‑mm teeth, a regular shampoo, a towel, a disposable container for debris, and gloves. Wash the child’s hair with a standard shampoo, rinse thoroughly, then apply a pediculicide approved for children (e.g., permethrin 1 % or dimethicone‑based lotion) according to the product label. Allow the prescribed contact time, then rinse.
While the hair remains wet, section it into 2‑inch strands. Starting at the scalp, slide the fine‑tooth comb down each section, moving the comb forward a few millimeters after each pass. After each pass, wipe the teeth on a paper towel and place removed lice and eggs in the container. Repeat the process until no visible insects remain; this typically requires 3–4 passes per section.
Repeat the combing procedure 48 hours after the first treatment, because newly hatched nits may emerge after the initial contact time. Perform a third combing session one week later to ensure any residual eggs are eliminated.
Clean the environment to prevent re‑infestation. Wash all bedding, hats, scarves, and hair accessories in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat. Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
If chemical treatments are unsuitable, a non‑chemical approach can be employed. Soak the hair in a solution of 1 % dimethicone or a mixture of 10 % vinegar and water for 30 minutes, then follow the same wet‑comb method. The oil‑based liquid suffocates the insects, while the acidic rinse helps loosen eggs.
Maintain a schedule of weekly checks for at least four weeks. Document findings to confirm complete eradication. Prompt, systematic combing combined with appropriate topical treatment and thorough cleaning provides the fastest and most reliable resolution for head‑lice problems in children with long hair.