How can lice and nits be removed at home? - briefly
Apply a medicated lice shampoo or a vinegar rinse, then comb the hair with a fine-tooth nit comb while it is still wet, repeating the process every 2–3 days for two weeks; simultaneously launder bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water to eliminate any remaining eggs.
How can lice and nits be removed at home? - in detail
Head lice infestations require prompt elimination of both the insects and their attached eggs. Effective home treatment combines thorough combing, appropriate topical agents, and environmental cleaning.
Manual removal
- Use a fine‑toothed nit comb on wet, conditioned hair.
- Section hair and pull the comb from scalp to tip in a single motion.
- After each pass, wipe the comb on a paper towel and repeat until no live insects or eggs are visible.
- Perform the process every 2–3 days for two weeks to catch newly hatched nymphs.
Topical preparations
- Apply an over‑the‑counter pediculicide containing 1% permethrin or 0.5% pyrethrin according to package directions.
- Leave the product on the scalp for the recommended time, then rinse thoroughly.
- Follow with a second application 7–10 days later to eradicate any survivors.
Alternative home solutions
- Apply a mixture of equal parts olive oil and coconut oil, saturating the scalp and hair. The coating suffocates insects; leave for 30 minutes, then comb out nits.
- Use a diluted solution of 10% tea tree oil in a carrier oil; apply, cover with a shower cap for 30 minutes, then comb. Both methods require repeat sessions every 3 days for a full two‑week cycle.
Environmental control
- Wash all bedding, towels, and clothing worn in the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥130 °F) 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.
Post‑treatment monitoring
- Inspect the scalp daily for signs of live lice or viable nits.
- Continue combing with a nit comb for at least 14 days after the last visible insect disappears.
- If infestation persists despite repeated home measures, seek prescription medication from a healthcare professional.
By integrating meticulous combing, approved topical agents, and rigorous cleaning of personal items, complete eradication can be achieved without clinical intervention.