How many days are needed to comb out lice? - briefly
Typically, 7–10 consecutive days of daily nit‑combing are needed to eradicate a head‑lice infestation. Continue the process after each wash until no live lice or viable nits remain.
How many days are needed to comb out lice? - in detail
Effective removal of head‑lice relies on a systematic combing routine. The process begins with a thorough wet‑comb session, followed by repeated combing at 24‑hour intervals until no live insects or viable eggs are detected.
The standard schedule spans seven to ten days. Lice hatch from eggs within 7‑10 days, so daily combing during this window eliminates newly emerged nymphs before they reproduce. After the tenth day, a final inspection confirms eradication; any remaining nits indicate a need for an additional week of treatment.
Factors influencing the required period include:
- Severity of infestation – heavy loads may demand extra sessions.
- Hair length and texture – longer or thicker hair can conceal eggs, extending the timeline.
- Comb quality – a fine‑toothed, metal nit‑comb works faster than plastic alternatives.
- Compliance – missed days allow hatching cycles to continue, lengthening treatment.
Practical steps:
- Saturate hair with water; apply a generous amount of conditioner to loosen nits.
- Starting at the scalp, run the nit‑comb down to the ends, wiping the teeth after each pass.
- Repeat the pass three times per section, then move to the next segment.
- Rinse and dry hair; repeat the entire combing process every 24 hours for at least a week.
- On day 7–10, perform a final thorough combing and inspect the hair under bright light; if no live lice or viable eggs are found, the infestation is cleared.
Adhering strictly to this daily schedule typically resolves the problem within the stated timeframe. Deviations or incomplete coverage are the most common reasons for prolonged treatment.