How can lice be removed from a child's long hair at home? - briefly
Use a fine-toothed nit comb on wet, conditioned hair, working from scalp to tips and cleaning the comb after each pass; repeat the combing every 2–3 days for two weeks while washing bedding and clothing in hot water. Apply an over‑the‑counter pediculicide spray or lotion according to the label if live insects persist after the initial combing.
How can lice be removed from a child's long hair at home? - in detail
Removing head‑lice infestations from a child with long hair requires a systematic approach that combines chemical or natural treatment, thorough combing, and environmental decontamination.
Begin with a suitable pediculicide or a proven non‑chemical alternative. Over‑the‑counter products containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin are effective when applied according to the label: dampen the hair, apply the lotion evenly from scalp to tips, leave for the recommended time (usually 10 minutes), then rinse thoroughly. For families preferring natural options, apply a warm olive‑oil mixture (olive oil plus a few drops of tea‑tree oil) to the scalp, cover with a plastic cap for 30 minutes, and then rinse.
After the treatment, use a fine‑toothed, metal nit comb (spacing ≤0.2 mm). Divide the hair into sections of 2–3 inches, secure each section with a clip, and comb from the scalp outward, wiping the comb on a white tissue after each pass. Repeat the process on the entire head, then repeat the combing 24 hours later to catch any newly hatched nymphs.
If live insects or viable eggs are still visible, repeat the entire treatment cycle after 7 days, as the life cycle of Pediculus humanus capitis requires two applications to eradicate all stages.
Environmental measures reduce re‑infestation risk. Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels used in the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes. Items that cannot be washed should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats, discarding the vacuum bag or cleaning the canister afterward.
For long hair, keep it restrained during treatment and combing to prevent tangling. Use a wide‑tooth comb to detangle before applying any product, then switch to the nit comb for lice removal.
Monitor the child’s scalp daily for at least three weeks. If live lice persist after two full treatment cycles, consult a healthcare professional for prescription‑strength options such as malathion or ivermectin lotion.
Following these steps—appropriate topical treatment, meticulous combing, repeat application, and thorough cleaning of personal items—provides a reliable, home‑based method to eliminate head‑lice infestations in children with lengthy hair.