How can you eliminate lice and nits at home from long hair? - briefly
Apply a medicated lice shampoo, then comb wet, conditioned hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb, repeating the combing every 3‑4 days for two weeks while washing bedding and clothing in hot water. Follow with thorough vacuuming of the home and keep hair trimmed to minimize re‑infestation.
How can you eliminate lice and nits at home from long hair? - in detail
Eliminating head‑lice infestations in lengthy hair requires a systematic approach that combines mechanical removal, chemical treatment, and environmental control.
First, prepare the hair for combing. Wash with a regular shampoo, rinse thoroughly, and towel‑dry until damp but not wet. Apply a conditioner to soften the strands and reduce friction during combing.
Next, use a fine‑toothed nit comb specifically designed for lice removal. Starting at the scalp, pull the comb through a 1‑inch section of hair, moving slowly toward the ends. After each pass, wipe the comb on a white paper towel to check for captured lice or nits. Continue the process until the entire head has been treated, repeating the combing session every 2–3 days for two weeks to catch newly hatched nits.
If chemical treatment is desired, select a pediculicide containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin. Follow the product label precisely: apply to dry hair, covering the scalp and all hair lengths, leave for the recommended duration (usually 10 minutes), then rinse. Afterward, repeat the nit‑combing routine to remove any surviving eggs.
Environmental decontamination reduces re‑infestation risk.
- Wash bedding, pillowcases, and clothing used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and tumble‑dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items (e.g., hats, hair accessories) in sealed plastic bags for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and vehicle seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
Finally, monitor for signs of recurrence. Persistent itching, visible lice, or nits after the two‑week period warrants a repeat of the treatment cycle or consultation with a healthcare professional.
Adhering to this protocol—dampening hair, conditioning, meticulous combing, optional pediculicide use, and thorough environmental sanitation—provides an effective, home‑based solution for eliminating lice and their eggs from long hair.