How can you get rid of lice on long and thick hair? - briefly
Apply a lice‑killing product to wet hair, then meticulously comb out all nits with a fine‑toothed nit comb, repeating the treatment after 7–10 days; clean bedding, clothing, and personal items to prevent re‑infestation.
How can you get rid of lice on long and thick hair? - in detail
Eliminating head‑lice infestations in lengthy, dense hair requires a systematic approach that combines chemical or natural agents, thorough mechanical removal, and environmental control.
Begin with a complete wash using a regular shampoo to remove excess oil and debris. Rinse thoroughly, then apply a lice‑killing product approved for use on long hair—permethrin 1 % lotion, pyrethrin‑based spray, or a dimethicone‑based silicone solution. Follow the manufacturer’s timing instructions precisely; over‑exposure can cause scalp irritation, while under‑exposure reduces efficacy.
After the treatment period, rinse the hair with lukewarm water and immediately proceed to manual removal. Use a fine‑toothed nit comb (0.2 mm spacing) on wet, conditioned hair. Divide the scalp into sections no wider than 2 inches, starting at the roots and pulling the comb down to the tips in a single, steady motion. Wipe the comb on a white tissue after each pass to detect live nits; discard any that remain attached to the hair shaft. Repeat the combing process at least three times, covering the entire length of the hair.
If chemical agents are unsuitable, a dimethicone oil treatment can suffocate lice. Apply a generous amount of silicone oil, cover the hair with a plastic cap, and leave it on for 8–12 hours. After removal, follow the same combing protocol. For those preferring botanical options, a 10 % tea‑tree oil mixture diluted in a carrier oil can be applied, but it must be left on for at least 30 minutes before thorough rinsing and combing.
Repeat the entire treatment cycle after 7–10 days, as newly hatched nymphs may emerge from eggs that survived the first round. A second application ensures complete eradication.
Environmental decontamination is essential. Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels used during the infestation in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks or placed in a freezer at –20 °C for 24 hours. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
Maintain vigilance by inspecting the scalp weekly for at least one month. Promptly repeat the combing routine if any live insects or viable eggs are observed. This disciplined regimen, applied consistently, eliminates lice from long, thick hair and prevents re‑infestation.