How can lice be quickly removed from the head with long hair? - briefly
Use a lice‑killing shampoo or lotion approved for treatment, then immediately comb the damp hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb from scalp to tips, removing each nit before moving on; repeat the process after 7–10 days to eliminate any newly hatched lice.
How can lice be quickly removed from the head with long hair? - in detail
Removing parasites from lengthy hair requires a systematic approach that combines mechanical extraction, chemical treatment, and thorough cleaning of the environment.
Begin with a fine-toothed comb designed for nidus removal. Wet the hair with a conditioner that smooths strands and reduces tangling; this allows the comb to glide without pulling. Starting at the scalp, pull the comb through small sections, moving outward toward the tips. After each pass, wipe the teeth on a disposable tissue and rinse the comb in hot water. Repeat the process on the entire head at least twice a day for ten consecutive days to intercept any newly hatched insects.
If a pediculicide is preferred, select a product containing 1% permethrin or 0.5% malathion, applied according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Apply the lotion or shampoo to dry hair, ensuring full coverage from roots to ends. Leave the preparation on for the recommended duration, then rinse thoroughly. Follow with the mechanical combing routine to extract dead and live specimens.
Supplementary measures enhance effectiveness:
- Trim the hair only if feasible; otherwise, maintain a tight braid or ponytail during treatment to keep strands separated.
- Wash all bedding, clothing, and personal items in water above 130 °F (54 °C) or seal them in a plastic bag for two weeks to kill dormant eggs.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats to remove stray nits.
Avoid re‑infestation by instructing all household members to undergo the same protocol simultaneously, even if they show no symptoms. Monitor the scalp daily for live insects or viable eggs; persistence after the full treatment cycle may indicate resistance, requiring a prescription‑only alternative such as ivermectin.
Consistent application of these steps eliminates the problem rapidly, even when hair length presents a logistical challenge.