How can lice be combed out of children? - briefly
Use a fine‑toothed nit comb on damp hair treated with conditioner, combing from the scalp outward in small sections and rinsing the comb after each pass. Repeat the procedure every few days for two weeks while applying an approved pediculicide to eradicate any remaining eggs.
How can lice be combed out of children? - in detail
Effective removal of head‑lice in children relies on a systematic combing process combined with proper preparation and follow‑up.
Begin by selecting a suitable comb. A metal or high‑quality plastic lice comb with teeth spaced 0.2 mm apart provides the necessary grip. Wet the hair with a conditioner or a dedicated lice‑removal spray; this reduces slip and makes the lice easier to catch.
Divide the hair into manageable sections. Use small clips or hair ties to isolate one quadrant at a time, starting at the scalp and working outward. Run the comb through each section from the roots to the tips, pulling the teeth through the hair in a single, steady motion. After each pass, wipe the comb on a tissue and rinse it in hot water to eliminate captured insects.
Repeat the combing for every section, ensuring that every strand is examined. Once the entire head has been processed, repeat the whole routine after 7–10 days to capture any newly hatched nymphs.
Key points for success:
- Use a fine‑toothed lice comb; regular brushes are ineffective.
- Apply a generous amount of conditioner or lice‑removal solution to keep hair slick.
- Work in small sections, securing the rest of the hair to avoid missing areas.
- Comb slowly, making multiple passes through each strand.
- Clean the comb after each pass to prevent re‑infestation.
- Perform a second combing session within two weeks.
Additional measures: wash bedding, hats, and personal items in hot water (≥ 130 °F) or seal them in plastic bags for two weeks; vacuum carpets and upholstery. Avoid sharing combs, brushes, or headgear until the infestation is resolved.
Following this protocol eliminates the majority of lice and nymphs without resorting to chemical treatments, minimizing discomfort and recurrence.