How can lice be removed at home from a person's head?

How can lice be removed at home from a person's head? - briefly

Apply a fine‑toothed comb to wet hair that has been treated with a pediculicide shampoo or a water‑tea‑tree‑oil mixture, combing from scalp to tips every few minutes for at least 30 minutes. Then launder bedding and clothing in hot water and repeat the combing after 7–10 days to eradicate any newly hatched nits.

How can lice be removed at home from a person's head? - in detail

Head lice infestations require prompt, systematic removal to prevent spread and re‑infestation. The process can be completed entirely at home using readily available tools and products.

Materials needed

• Fine‑toothed lice comb (0.25 mm spacing)
• Fine‑toothed nit comb (0.15 mm spacing)
• Conditioner or detangling spray
• Pediculicide shampoo or lotion approved for children (permethrin 1 % or pyrethrin)
• Hair dryer (optional)
• Plastic bags, hot water, and a washing machine

Step‑by‑step procedure

1. Confirm infestation

   • Examine scalp in a well‑lit area.
   • Separate hair into sections; run the lice comb from scalp to ends.
   • Look for live lice (brown, wingless) and nits attached within 1 cm of the scalp.

2. Prepare hair

   • Apply generous conditioner to wet hair; this lubricates the strands and eases combing.
   • Detangle thoroughly to avoid pulling out nits with the comb.

3. Mechanical removal

   • Starting at the scalp, pull the lice comb through each section, moving slowly toward the tips.
   • After each pass, wipe the comb on a white paper towel; discard any lice or nits found.
   • Repeat the process on the entire head, then repeat with the nit comb for closer inspection.
   • Perform this combing session for 10–15 minutes, then repeat every 2–3 days for two weeks.

4. Chemical treatment (if preferred)

   • Follow the product label precisely; apply to dry hair, saturating the scalp and hair shafts.
   • Leave for the recommended duration (usually 10 minutes).
   • Rinse with warm water, then repeat the mechanical removal steps immediately after rinsing.

5. Post‑treatment cleaning

   • Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥60 °C) and dry on high heat.
   • Seal non‑washable items in sealed plastic bags for two weeks.
   • Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard vacuum bags or clean canisters.

6. Follow‑up inspection

   • Conduct a thorough comb check 7 days after the first treatment.
   • If live lice are still present, repeat the chemical treatment and combing cycle.
   • Continue weekly checks for an additional two weeks to ensure complete eradication.

Precautions

• Avoid using excessive heat or harsh chemicals on children’s scalps.
• Do not share combs, hats, or hair accessories during treatment.
• If allergic reactions or irritation occur, discontinue the product and consult a healthcare professional.

By adhering to this regimen—combination of diligent wet combing, optional pediculicide use, and rigorous environmental sanitation—head lice can be eliminated effectively without professional intervention.