How to get rid of lice on long hair? - briefly
Apply a pediculicide shampoo, then comb the wet, conditioned hair with a fine-toothed nit comb from scalp to ends, repeating the process several times to remove live lice and nits. Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water and repeat the treatment after 7‑10 days to eradicate any newly hatched insects.
How to get rid of lice on long hair? - in detail
Lice infestations in lengthy hair require a systematic approach because the increased volume creates more hiding places for nits and adult insects. Begin with a thorough inspection. Use a bright light and a fine‑toothed lice comb to separate strands, looking for live insects and oval, white eggs attached close to the scalp. Mark any sections that contain live specimens to track progress.
Preparation
- Wash the hair with a regular shampoo to remove excess oil and debris.
- Towel‑dry until damp but not wet; a slightly moist shaft allows the comb to glide more easily.
- Apply a conditioner solely to the ends; do not coat the scalp, as slip can hinder combing.
Chemical treatment
Select a pediculicide approved for use on long hair, preferably one with a low‑risk active ingredient such as dimethicone or a pyrethrin‑based formula. Follow the manufacturer’s dosage instructions exactly: apply the product, cover the hair with a plastic cap for the recommended duration, then rinse thoroughly. Avoid reapplying within 24 hours to prevent resistance buildup.
Mechanical removal
After the chemical step, comb the hair with a metal lice comb. Work from the scalp outward, sectioning the hair into 1‑inch strips. After each pass, wipe the comb on a tissue and re‑dip in a container of warm, soapy water. Continue until no live lice or nits are visible in the combed sections. Repeat the combing process at 48‑hour intervals for a total of three sessions; this schedule eliminates newly hatched insects before they can lay eggs.
Alternative natural options
If chemical agents are undesirable, use a blend of 100 % olive oil or coconut oil applied to the scalp and hair. Leave the oil on for at least eight hours, then repeat the meticulous combing routine described above. The oil suffocates the parasites and loosens the glue that secures nits to hair shafts.
Post‑treatment care
- Wash all bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture to remove stray insects.
- Seal non‑washable items in sealed bags for two weeks.
- Advise close contacts to inspect their hair and, if necessary, repeat the treatment protocol.
Prevention
- Encourage daily comb checks, especially after group activities.
- Avoid sharing combs, hats, scarves, or hair accessories.
- Keep hair tied back during contact sports to reduce transfer risk.
By combining a targeted chemical or oil‑based solution with disciplined combing and rigorous environmental decontamination, infestations in long hair can be eradicated efficiently and sustainably.