How can lice larvae be removed from hair? - briefly
Apply a fine-toothed nit comb to damp, conditioned hair after treating with a pediculicide or a lubricating oil to immobilize the nits, then rinse and repeat the combing for several days. A thorough manual removal followed by washing with water at least 130 °F (54 °C) ensures any remaining larvae are eliminated.
How can lice larvae be removed from hair? - in detail
Effective removal of lice nymphs from scalp hair requires a systematic approach that combines detection, physical extraction, and, when necessary, chemical or alternative treatments.
Begin by isolating a well‑lit area and separating the hair into manageable sections. Use a fine‑toothed nit comb, ideally with teeth spaced 0.2–0.3 mm, to glide from the scalp outward. After each pass, wipe the comb on a white cloth to confirm the capture of nits or newly hatched larvae. Repeat the process on each section at least three times, ensuring that the comb reaches the base of the hair shaft where the eggs are attached.
If manual combing alone does not achieve satisfactory clearance, incorporate one of the following adjuncts:
- Pediculicidal shampoos or lotions containing permethrin (1 %) or pyrethrin. Apply according to manufacturer instructions, leave the product on the scalp for the recommended duration, then rinse and comb immediately.
- Silicone‑based suffocation agents such as dimethicone. Apply a generous amount to dry hair, cover with a plastic cap for 10–12 minutes, then rinse and comb.
- Heat‑based methods: use a steam device or a hair dryer set on high heat, directing the airflow close to the scalp for 5–7 minutes before combing. Heat denatures the egg shell, facilitating removal.
- Olive oil or petroleum jelly: coat the hair and scalp, leave for 30 minutes, then comb. The oily layer reduces the adhesive strength of the eggs, making them easier to extract.
After any treatment, repeat the combing procedure 7–10 days later to capture any nymphs that may have hatched from eggs missed during the first round. Maintain this schedule for at least three cycles to break the life cycle completely.
Additional preventive measures include washing bedding, clothing, and personal items in water above 50 °C, vacuuming upholstered furniture, and avoiding the sharing of hats, brushes, or hair accessories.
Consistent application of the above steps, combined with diligent follow‑up, eliminates lice nymphs from hair and prevents re‑infestation.