How should you remove lice and nits? - briefly
Use a fine-toothed nit comb on wet, conditioned hair, working from scalp outward and repeat every 2–3 days for two weeks while laundering bedding and clothing in hot water. If lice remain, apply an approved pediculicide according to the product label.
How should you remove lice and nits? - in detail
The elimination of head lice and their attached eggs requires a systematic approach that combines chemical or mechanical treatment, thorough combing, and environmental control.
First, select an appropriate treatment. Over‑the‑counter pediculicides containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin are effective when applied according to the package directions. For resistant infestations, a prescription lotion with 0.5 % ivermectin or a benzyl alcohol‑based product may be used. Apply the product to dry hair, cover the scalp for the recommended time, then rinse thoroughly. Do not reuse the same bottle on a different person.
Second, perform meticulous wet combing. After rinsing, apply a generous amount of conditioner to loosen the insects. Using a fine‑toothed nit comb (spacing 0.2 mm), divide the hair into sections and pull the comb from scalp to tip in a single, smooth motion. Rinse the comb after each pass. Repeat the process for the entire head, then inspect the comb and hair for live lice and viable nits. Remove any visible eggs with tweezers.
Third, repeat the entire procedure. Because newly hatched lice may emerge from eggs that survived the first treatment, a second application of the pediculicide or a second combing session should be performed 7–10 days after the initial treatment.
Fourth, address personal items and the environment. Wash all bedding, towels, and clothing used within the past 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F/54 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes. Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
Fifth, monitor for reinfestation. Examine the scalp and hair every 2–3 days for the next three weeks. If live lice are detected, repeat the combing protocol immediately. Persistent cases may require consultation with a healthcare professional for alternative therapies.
Finally, educate all household members. Inform them of the treatment schedule, the necessity of avoiding head-to-head contact, and the importance of not sharing personal items such as hats, hairbrushes, or headphones. Consistent adherence to these steps eliminates the infestation and prevents recurrence.