How can you comb out lice and nits at home? - briefly
Use a fine‑toothed nit comb on wet, conditioned hair, starting at the scalp and moving outward, rinsing the comb after each pass. Repeat the process every few days for two weeks to eliminate remaining lice and eggs.
How can you comb out lice and nits at home? - in detail
Effective removal of head‑lice and their eggs at home requires a systematic approach.
Begin with preparation. Choose a fine‑toothed metal lice comb, a white towel, and a bowl of warm water mixed with a small amount of conditioner to reduce hair friction. Apply a suitable pediculicide or a non‑chemical treatment such as dimethicone, following product instructions, then allow the recommended contact time.
Proceed to combing.
- Separate hair into manageable sections using clips or hair ties.
- Starting at the scalp, run the comb through each section in a slow, steady motion toward the hair tips.
- After each pass, rinse the comb in the water‑conditioner mixture, wipe it on the towel, and repeat until no live insects or eggs are visible.
- Examine the towel for fallen lice and nits; dispose of them by sealing in a plastic bag.
Repeat the combing process daily for at least seven days, extending to ten days if possible, to capture any newly hatched nits before they mature.
Post‑treatment measures.
- Wash all bedding, clothing, and personal items used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats thoroughly.
- Store infrequently used items in sealed plastic bags for two weeks.
Prevention strategies.
- Encourage regular inspection of hair, especially after contact with known infestations.
- Limit head‑to‑head contact during play and avoid sharing hats, brushes, or hair accessories.
- Maintain clean personal items and avoid placing hair tools in communal areas.
Consistent application of these steps eliminates lice and their eggs without professional intervention.