How can lice be removed from the head at home? - briefly
Use a fine-toothed nit comb on wet, conditioned hair after applying a pediculicide or a natural oil (such as olive oil) to loosen nits, combing from scalp to ends repeatedly. Repeat the treatment every 2–3 days for two weeks and launder all bedding and personal items in hot water.
How can lice be removed from the head at home? - in detail
Head lice are tiny insects that live on the scalp, lay eggs (nits) attached to hair shafts, and multiply quickly. Removing them promptly prevents spread and reduces itching.
Required items
- Fine‑toothed nit comb (metal or plastic)
- Conditioner or detangling spray
- Small bowl of warm water
- Fine‑toothed fine‑mesh hair clips (optional)
- White towel or disposable sheets
- Plastic bag for discarded hair and comb
Procedure
- Wet the hair completely. Apply a generous amount of conditioner to loosen the glue that holds nits to the shaft.
- Section the scalp. Divide hair into 1‑inch sections using clips; work from the crown outward.
- Comb through each section. Starting at the scalp, pull the comb slowly down to the ends, wiping the teeth on a white towel after each pass to expose any live insects.
- Rinse and repeat. After a full pass, rinse the hair, reapply conditioner, and repeat the combing process at least three times per section.
- Collect debris. Place all removed lice, nits, and hair clippings into a sealed plastic bag and discard immediately.
Additional measures
- Repeat the combing routine every 2–3 days for two weeks, as newly hatched lice emerge from surviving eggs.
- Launder clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) and dry on high heat; items that cannot be washed should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and vehicle seats to eliminate stray insects.
Chemical options
- Over‑the‑counter pediculicides containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin may be applied after the initial wet‑combing session. Follow the product label precisely; a second application after 7–10 days targets any remaining hatchlings.
When professional assistance is required
- Persistent infestation after three thorough combing cycles and a correct pediculicide regimen.
- Allergic reaction to topical treatments.
- Presence of secondary skin infection (e.g., impetigo).
Following this systematic approach eliminates head lice effectively without leaving the premises.