How to remove lice and nits from long hair at home? - briefly
Apply an over‑the‑counter lice treatment, then, while the hair remains damp, run a fine‑toothed nit comb from the scalp to the ends, repeating the process until no lice or eggs are seen. Wash all clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water to prevent re‑infestation.
How to remove lice and nits from long hair at home? - in detail
Eliminating head‑lice infestations in lengthy hair can be achieved with a systematic home approach that combines thorough cleansing, precise combing, and careful post‑treatment care.
Begin by assembling the necessary tools: a fine‑toothed nit comb (spacing 0.2 mm), a spray bottle filled with lukewarm water, a mild conditioner, a white towel, disposable gloves, and a plastic bag for waste. Avoid products containing oil or silicone, as they impede comb movement.
- Wet the hair completely. Apply a generous amount of conditioner to create slip; this reduces friction and allows the comb to glide over the strands without breaking the eggs.
- Section the hair. Divide the mane into manageable 2‑inch sections using clips; work from the scalp outward, ensuring each segment receives full attention.
- Comb systematically. Starting at the scalp, pull the nit comb through the hair to the tip in a single, steady motion. After each pass, wipe the comb on a white towel, then rinse it in hot water to remove captured lice and nits. Repeat the process 4–5 times per section before moving to the next.
- Repeat the cycle. Perform the entire combing routine twice daily for seven consecutive days. This schedule covers the life cycle of lice, preventing newly hatched nits from maturing.
If chemical treatment is preferred, select a pediculicide labeled for use on long hair, following the manufacturer’s dosage precisely. Apply the product to saturated hair, leave it on for the recommended period, then rinse thoroughly. Immediately follow with the combing protocol to extract any surviving eggs.
After the final combing session, wash all clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water (≥ 60 °C) or place them in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks. Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture to eliminate stray insects.
Maintain vigilance by inspecting the scalp weekly for two months. Promptly repeat the combing routine at the first sign of recurrence. Consistent hygiene practices—regular hair washing, avoiding head‑to‑head contact, and not sharing combs or hats—substantially reduce the risk of re‑infestation.