How to comb lice after treatment? - briefly
After the medication has dried, run a fine‑toothed nit comb through damp hair, beginning at the scalp and moving toward the ends, cleaning the comb after each stroke. Repeat this daily for the full period recommended by the treatment protocol.
How to comb lice after treatment? - in detail
Combating head‑lice after medication requires a systematic approach to remove dead insects, eggs, and any remaining live nits. Follow these precise steps:
- Select the right comb. Use a fine‑toothed, metal nit‑comb with teeth spaced 0.2 mm apart. Plastic variants may bend and miss small nits.
- Prepare the hair. Apply a generous amount of conditioner or a specialized detangling spray. The lubricant reduces friction, prevents breakage, and allows the comb to glide through each strand.
- Divide into sections. Separate the scalp into quadrants or smaller segments using clips. Working on one small area at a time ensures thorough coverage.
- Comb from scalp outward. Starting at the root, pull the comb through the hair slowly, covering the entire length in a single pass. After each pass, wipe the comb on a tissue or rinse it in warm water to remove collected lice and eggs.
- Repeat the process. Perform three passes per section, rotating the comb 90 degrees between passes to catch nits oriented in different directions.
- Inspect the combed area. After each quadrant, examine the hair under bright light. Use a magnifying glass if necessary to verify that no live insects or viable eggs remain.
- Dispose of debris safely. Place removed material in a sealed bag or container before discarding to avoid re‑infestation.
- Maintain a schedule. Repeat the entire combing routine every 2–3 days for two weeks, as newly hatched lice may emerge from eggs that survived the initial treatment.
- Prevent re‑contamination. Wash bedding, hats, hair accessories, and personal items in hot water (≥ 130 °F) or seal them in plastic bags for two weeks. Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture to eliminate stray nits.
Additional considerations:
- Avoid excessive force. Pulling hard can damage the scalp and cause hair loss; gentle, steady strokes are sufficient when the conditioner is applied.
- Do not share combs or brushes during the treatment period.
- Monitor for side effects. If irritation or allergic reaction to the conditioner or medication occurs, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
By adhering to this detailed protocol, the likelihood of residual infestation drops dramatically, ensuring complete eradication and minimizing the need for further chemical interventions.