How should lice be treated with a comb? - briefly
Wet the hair, apply a generous amount of conditioner, then run a fine‑toothed nit comb from the scalp to the tips, rinsing the comb after each pass; repeat the process every 2–3 days for two weeks to eliminate all lice and nits.
How should lice be treated with a comb? - in detail
Treating head‑lice infestations with a comb requires a systematic approach that eliminates live insects, nits, and prevents re‑infestation. Follow these steps precisely.
Begin by selecting a metal or high‑quality plastic comb with teeth spaced 0.2 mm apart. Wet the hair with warm water and a small amount of conditioner to reduce tangling. Section the scalp into 1‑inch strips; secure each section with a clip. Starting at the scalp, draw the comb through the hair in a single, slow motion, ensuring the teeth reach the skin before pulling forward. After each pass, wipe the comb on a tissue and rinse it in a bowl of hot, soapy water to remove captured lice and eggs. Repeat the process for every section, covering the entire head.
Perform the combing session every 2–3 days for two weeks, because newly hatched nits become mobile within 7–10 days. Between sessions, wash bedding, hats, and personal items in hot water (≥ 60 °C) or place them in a sealed bag for at least 48 hours. Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture to remove stray insects.
Maintain a clean environment by avoiding the sharing of combs, hair accessories, or headgear. Inspect family members regularly, especially after treatment, and repeat the combing protocol if any live lice are observed.
Key points for optimal results:
- Use a fine‑toothed lice comb, not a regular brush.
- Keep hair moist and conditioned to ease comb passage.
- Work methodically, section by section, to avoid missing nits.
- Clean the comb after each stroke to prevent re‑depositing eggs.
- Continue the regimen for at least 14 days, with sessions every few days.
Adhering to this detailed routine eliminates the infestation without reliance on chemicals and minimizes the risk of recurrence.