How can lice and nits be removed from children's long hair? - briefly
Apply an approved lice treatment, then comb the damp, conditioned hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb, working from scalp to ends and removing each egg; repeat the combing every 3–4 days for two weeks. Clean clothing, bedding, and personal items with hot water or seal them in a plastic bag for 48 hours to prevent re‑infestation.
How can lice and nits be removed from children's long hair? - in detail
Treat the infestation systematically. Begin with a thorough assessment: separate the child’s hair into manageable sections, preferably using clips, and examine each strand with a fine‑tooth comb under bright light. Identify live insects and their eggs, which appear as tiny, oval, yellow‑white bodies attached close to the scalp.
Preparation
- Choose an appropriate pediculicide or a natural alternative. Permethrin 1 % lotion, pyrethrin‑based spray, or dimethicone‑based product are clinically proven. For chemical‑free treatment, apply a saturated mixture of coconut oil, olive oil, or a tea‑tree oil solution (0.5 % concentration).
- Follow label instructions for dosage, exposure time, and safety precautions, especially regarding skin sensitivity and age restrictions.
Application
- Apply the product evenly to dry hair, ensuring coverage from roots to tips.
- Massage gently to penetrate the egg casings.
- Cover the hair with a shower cap or plastic wrap for the recommended duration (usually 10–15 minutes for chemical agents, 30–60 minutes for oil‑based treatments).
Removal
- After the waiting period, rinse thoroughly with warm water.
- While hair remains damp, run a fine‑tooth nit comb through each section, starting at the scalp and moving outward.
- Wipe the comb on a white paper towel after each pass to detect any remaining eggs.
Repeat
- Perform a second treatment 7–9 days later to target newly hatched insects that survived the first round.
- Conduct a third check 14 days after the initial application to confirm eradication.
Preventive measures
- Wash all bedding, hats, hair accessories, and clothing in hot water (≥ 60 °C) or seal them in a plastic bag for two weeks.
- Instruct the child to avoid sharing combs, brushes, or headwear.
- Encourage regular inspection of hair, especially after contact with other children, and repeat combing weekly for one month.
By adhering to this protocol—accurate diagnosis, correct product use, meticulous combing, scheduled re‑treatments, and strict hygiene—infestation in long hair can be eliminated efficiently and safely.