How can lice eggs be removed from long hair? - briefly
Wet the hair, apply a generous amount of conditioner, then run a fine‑toothed nit comb from the scalp to the tips, combing each section repeatedly to dislodge the eggs. After rinsing, repeat the process in a week to eliminate any newly hatched nits.
How can lice eggs be removed from long hair? - in detail
Lice eggs (nits) cling tightly to hair shafts, especially when the strands are long. Effective removal requires a systematic approach that combines proper preparation, the right tools, and repeated treatment.
Begin by washing the hair with a regular shampoo, then apply a generous amount of conditioner. The conditioner lubricates the strands, reducing the grip of the eggs and making them easier to slide off. Rinse lightly, leaving the hair damp but not dripping.
Select a fine-tooth nit comb with teeth spaced 0.2 mm apart. A metal comb is preferable because it does not bend under tension. Keep a magnifying glass and a bright light nearby to improve visibility. Place a clean towel over the shoulders to catch fallen eggs.
Step‑by‑step removal
- Separate the hair into sections 2–3 cm wide, securing each with a hair clip.
- Starting at the scalp, run the comb through the first section from root to tip in a slow, steady motion.
- After each pass, wipe the comb’s teeth on a paper towel or rinse them under running water to prevent re‑depositing eggs.
- Pull the comb away from the scalp after each stroke; do not slide it back toward the roots, which can embed eggs deeper.
- Repeat the process for every section, working from the crown outward.
- Once a section is cleared, comb it again a second time to capture any missed nits.
After completing the entire head, place the comb in hot, soapy water for at least five minutes to kill any remaining lice or eggs. Rinse and dry the comb before storage.
Because nits hatch within 7–10 days, repeat the combing routine at least twice during this interval. If live lice persist, apply an approved pediculicide to the scalp, following the product’s instructions precisely. Avoid using excessive heat styling tools, as they can damage hair and make combing more difficult.
Regular inspection of the hair, especially after treatment, helps confirm that all eggs have been eliminated. Maintaining clean bedding, hats, and personal items reduces the risk of reinfestation.