How to fight lice on long hair? - briefly
Apply a recommended lice treatment to the scalp, then comb the entire length of the hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb, removing each nymph and egg; wash the hair and repeat the combing after 7–10 days. Disinfect bedding, clothing, brushes, and personal items to prevent re‑infestation.
How to fight lice on long hair? - in detail
Dealing with head‑lice infestations in long hair requires a systematic approach that combines thorough removal, targeted treatment, and preventive measures.
Begin with a meticulous combing process. Use a fine‑toothed, metal lice comb on wet hair that has been conditioned to reduce tangles. Divide the hair into small sections, starting at the scalp and working outward. After each pass, wipe the comb on a white tissue to verify the presence of live insects or eggs, and replace the comb tip if it becomes clogged. Repeat the combing for at least 30 minutes, then repeat the entire routine every 24 hours for ten days to ensure all newly hatched nits are eliminated.
Apply an approved pediculicide if mechanical removal alone is insufficient. Choose a product containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % malathion, following the manufacturer’s instructions precisely. Apply the solution to dry hair, cover with a plastic cap for the recommended duration, then rinse thoroughly. Avoid excessive use; a single treatment followed by a second application after seven days usually suffices.
Complement chemical treatment with a secondary method to increase efficacy. A mixture of 10 % vinegar and water applied to the hair for ten minutes before combing can loosen nits, while a warm oil (olive or coconut) left on the scalp for thirty minutes can suffocate lice. Rinse the hair afterward and proceed with combing.
Implement preventive steps to reduce the risk of reinfestation. Wash all bedding, towels, and clothing used within the past 48 hours in water hotter than 130 °F (54 °C) or place them in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks. Limit head‑to‑head contact, especially in school or daycare settings, and avoid sharing combs, hats, or hair accessories. Regularly inspect hair, focusing on the nape and behind the ears, and perform weekly combing with a lice comb as a precaution.
Maintain hygiene without over‑cleaning. Frequent shampooing does not eradicate lice but can help keep the scalp healthy, making it less attractive to parasites. Use a mild, non‑irritating shampoo to avoid scalp inflammation, which could complicate treatment.
Finally, monitor the situation closely. If live lice or nits persist after two treatment cycles, consult a healthcare professional for alternative prescription options, such as ivermectin or benzyl alcohol lotion. Prompt medical advice prevents prolonged infestations and minimizes the chance of secondary infections.