How can you get rid of nits and lice from a child with long hair at home? - briefly
Apply an FDA‑approved lice treatment shampoo, then comb the damp hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb, working from the scalp outward and removing each egg. Repeat the combing after 7–10 days and launder all bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water to prevent reinfestation.
How can you get rid of nits and lice from a child with long hair at home? - in detail
Treating a child’s long hair for lice and their eggs requires a systematic approach that combines mechanical removal, chemical treatment, and environmental control.
Begin with a thorough wet‑combing session. Apply a generous amount of conditioner or a lice‑specific detangling spray to damp hair. Use a fine‑toothed nit comb, starting at the scalp and moving slowly toward the ends, wiping the comb on a white towel after each pass to detect any captured insects. Repeat the process every 3–4 days for at least two weeks, because newly hatched nymphs emerge after the eggs are removed.
If a pediculicide is preferred, select a product approved for children over two years and follow the label precisely. Apply the lotion or shampoo to saturated hair, leave it on for the recommended duration, then rinse thoroughly. A second application after 7–10 days eliminates any survivors that hatched after the first treatment.
After chemical or mechanical removal, wash all personal items that may harbor lice. Use hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) for clothing, bedding, and towels; dry them on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks, the typical lifespan of a louse without a host.
Prevent re‑infestation by adopting these habits:
- Keep hair tied back or in a braid to reduce contact.
- Teach children to avoid sharing combs, hats, or hair accessories.
- Perform weekly inspections using a bright light and a fine comb.
If symptoms persist despite repeated treatments, consult a healthcare professional for alternative therapies or prescription‑strength options.