How to remove all lice and nits? - briefly
Apply a pediculicide shampoo, then comb the hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb while the hair is wet and conditioned; repeat the combing every 2–3 days for two weeks. Wash all bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water and vacuum the living area to eliminate any remaining eggs.
How to remove all lice and nits? - in detail
Effective eradication of head‑lice infestations requires a systematic approach that combines thorough combing, appropriate topical agents, and strict follow‑up.
Begin by isolating personal items. Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes. Seal non‑washable items in sealed plastic bags for two weeks to starve any surviving insects.
Next, treat the scalp. Apply a pediculicide approved by health authorities—such as 1 % permethrin lotion or 0.5 % malathion liquid—according to the product label. Leave the preparation on the hair for the specified duration, usually 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. For resistance‑prone cases, consider a prescription‑only agent like ivermectin or spinosad, following medical guidance.
After chemical treatment, perform mechanical removal. While the hair is still damp, use a fine‑toothed nit comb (spacing ≤0.2 mm). Section the hair and run the comb from scalp to tip, wiping the teeth after each pass. Repeat the process for the entire head, then clean the comb in hot, soapy water. Conduct this combing session daily for seven days, then repeat after ten days to capture any newly hatched nits.
Supplementary measures can enhance results. Apply a diluted solution of 10 % tea tree oil or 1 % dimethicone directly to the scalp; both substances immobilize lice without resistance issues. Use a hair dryer on a low‑heat setting to blow air across the scalp after combing, aiding in the removal of loosened eggs.
Finally, maintain a vigilant environment. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and vehicle seats; discard hair accessories that cannot be disinfected. Conduct weekly inspections of all household members for at least one month, repeating the combing protocol if any signs reappear.
Adhering strictly to this protocol eliminates the infestation and prevents recurrence.