How quickly can lice and nits be removed from a child's long hair?

How quickly can lice and nits be removed from a child's long hair? - briefly

A proper medicated shampoo followed by meticulous combing with a fine-toothed nit comb usually eliminates an infestation within 24–48 hours, and a repeat treatment 7–10 days later removes any newly hatched lice. This two‑step regimen is the fastest reliable method for clearing long hair.

How quickly can lice and nits be removed from a child's long hair? - in detail

The removal of lice and their eggs from a child’s long hair can be completed within a few days when a systematic approach is applied. Success depends on prompt detection, effective treatment, thorough combing, and diligent follow‑up.

Initial assessment – Examine the scalp under bright light. Identify live insects and attached ova by parting the hair in sections of 2–3 cm. Record the infestation level to gauge treatment intensity.
Chemical or physical treatment – Choose a pediculicide approved for pediatric use (e.g., 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % malathion) or a non‑chemical option such as dimethicone. Apply according to the label, ensuring coverage of the entire length from scalp to tips. For long hair, a conditioner or oil may be used to facilitate even distribution.
Mechanical removal – After the prescribed exposure time, rinse hair and use a fine‑toothed nit comb (0.2 mm spacing). Comb each section from root to tip, wiping the comb after each pass. Repeat the combing process at least three times daily for the first 48 hours, then once daily for the next two days. This schedule eliminates newly hatched lice that escape the initial chemical action.
Environmental control – Wash bedding, clothing, and hats in hot water (≥ 60 °C) or seal items in plastic bags for two weeks. Vacuum upholstered surfaces to capture stray eggs.
Follow‑up inspection – Re‑examine the scalp 7–10 days after the first treatment. Absence of live insects and empty egg shells confirms eradication. If any live lice are found, repeat the entire regimen.

When all steps are executed without delay, most infestations are resolved within 3–5 days, with a final confirmation of clearance by the end of the second week. Delays in treatment, incomplete combing, or insufficient environmental measures extend the timeline and increase the risk of recurrence.