How should lice be properly combed out of long hair? - briefly
Apply conditioner to damp hair, then run a fine‑tooth nit comb from the scalp to the ends, rinsing the comb after each pass and repeating the process every 2–3 days until no lice or nits are detected. Disinfect the comb in hot, soapy water and wash the hair with a lice‑killing shampoo after each treatment.
How should lice be properly combed out of long hair? - in detail
To eliminate head‑lice infestations from long hair, follow a systematic combing protocol that combines preparation, precise technique, and thorough inspection.
Begin by washing the scalp with a regular shampoo. Rinse, then apply a generous amount of a fine‑toothed, metal lice comb to damp strands. The moisture softens the hair, allowing the teeth to glide without breaking fibers.
Proceed with these steps:
- Section the hair – Divide the scalp into 2‑inch sections using clips or hair ties. Work from the crown toward the ends, ensuring each segment is fully treated before moving on.
- Comb from root to tip – Starting at the scalp, draw the comb through the entire length of the section in a single, smooth motion. After each pass, wipe the comb on a white tissue or rinse it in a bowl of hot water to remove captured insects and nits.
- Repeat passes – Perform at least three consecutive passes per section, alternating the direction (root‑to‑tip, then tip‑to‑root) to catch any missed eggs.
- Inspect the comb – After each pass, examine the teeth under a bright light. Any visible lice or viable nits should be removed with tweezers and disposed of in sealed plastic.
- Re‑section and re‑comb – Once all sections have been processed, re‑divide the hair and repeat the entire combing cycle. This second round captures any survivors that may have shifted during the first pass.
- Final rinse – After the final combing, rinse the hair thoroughly to eliminate residual debris. Dry with a clean towel; avoid using hair dryers that could disperse any remaining insects.
Maintain the regimen for seven days, repeating the combing process every 24 hours. This schedule aligns with the lice life cycle, ensuring that newly hatched nymphs are removed before they mature and lay eggs.
Additional precautions:
- Use a dedicated comb that is not shared with others.
- Wash all bedding, hats, and hair accessories in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat.
- Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture to eliminate stray lice.
By adhering to this methodical approach, complete eradication of lice from long hair can be achieved without reliance on chemical treatments.