How to comb out lice on children? - briefly
Wet the child's hair, apply a conditioner, and run a fine-toothed nit comb from scalp to ends, cleaning the comb after each pass; repeat the process every 2–3 days for two weeks. Inspect the hair after each session and remove any remaining nits before they hatch.
How to comb out lice on children? - in detail
Removing head‑lice infestations from a child’s hair requires a systematic approach that combines proper preparation, precise combing technique, and thorough follow‑up.
Begin by selecting a fine‑toothed, metal lice comb designed specifically for nits. Prepare the hair by washing with a regular shampoo, rinsing, and gently towel‑drying until damp but not soaking. Apply a conditioner or a small amount of mineral oil to the scalp and hair; this reduces friction and makes the lice easier to slide off the shafts.
Divide the hair into sections no wider than one inch. Starting at the scalp, run the comb through each section slowly, moving outward toward the ends. After each pass, wipe the comb on a tissue or rinse it under running water to remove captured insects and eggs. Repeat the process three times per section before moving to the next. Ensure that the comb reaches the roots, as lice cling tightly to the hair shaft near the scalp.
After the entire head has been combed, inspect the combed hair under bright light. Use a fine brush or a magnifying glass to verify that no live lice or viable nits remain. If any are found, repeat the combing cycle on the affected area.
Post‑treatment steps include:
- Washing bedding, hats, scarves, and any clothing the child wore during the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and drying on high heat.
- Vacuuming carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats to eliminate fallen insects.
- Storing unused combs in a sealed container for at least 24 hours before reuse.
- Re‑examining the child’s hair every 2–3 days for a total of two weeks; perform a quick combing session if any new lice are detected.
Consistent application of this method eliminates the infestation without reliance on chemical pediculicides, minimizing exposure to potentially irritating substances while ensuring complete removal of both adult lice and their eggs.