How to quickly remove lice from long hair? - briefly
Apply a fast‑acting lice spray, then comb the wet hair with a fine‑toothed lice comb from scalp to ends in small sections, wiping the comb after each pass; repeat the process after 24 hours to eliminate any newly hatched nits.
How to quickly remove lice from long hair? - in detail
Removing lice from long hair requires a systematic approach that combines thorough combing, appropriate treatment, and careful cleaning of the environment.
Begin with a pre‑treatment rinse. Apply a generous amount of warm water to the scalp, then use a fine‑toothed nit comb to separate the strands. This step loosens egg cases (nits) and makes subsequent removal easier.
Select an effective lice product. Options include a 1 % permethrin lotion, a dimethicone‑based liquid, or an oil‑based remedy such as tea‑tree or neem oil. Follow the label instructions precisely: apply to dry hair, saturate from roots to tips, and leave the solution on for the recommended duration (usually 10–15 minutes).
After the waiting period, rinse the hair with lukewarm water. While the hair is still wet, comb it again with the nit comb, working in sections from the crown to the ends. Discard each combed segment onto a white paper towel; any visible lice or nits indicate successful removal.
Repeat the combing process at least twice, spacing sessions 7–10 days apart to catch any newly hatched insects.
Maintain hygiene to prevent reinfestation:
- Wash all bedding, towels, and clothing used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
- Seal non‑washable items (e.g., stuffed toys) in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
For persistent cases, consider a second treatment using a different active ingredient, such as a benzyl alcohol spray, to avoid resistance.
Finally, educate those in close contact about the procedure, ensuring they inspect and treat their hair simultaneously. Consistent application of these steps eliminates lice from long hair quickly and minimizes the risk of recurrence.