How to remove lice from long hair at home? - briefly
Apply a fine-toothed nit comb to thoroughly wet, conditioned hair after treating it with a lice‑killing product (e.g., a pediculicide or a diluted vinegar solution), then repeat the combing every 2–3 days for two weeks to eliminate remaining eggs.
How to remove lice from long hair at home? - in detail
Removing head‑lice infestations from lengthy hair can be accomplished safely with household supplies and careful technique. The following protocol covers detection, treatment, and follow‑up without professional intervention.
Necessary supplies
- Fine‑tooth metal comb (nit comb)
- Fine‑tooth plastic comb (optional)
- Shampoo with pyrithione zinc or a tea‑tree oil blend, or a plain mild shampoo if chemical treatment is not desired
- White vinegar (5 % acetic acid)
- Olive oil or coconut oil
- Towels and a disposable basin
- Rubber gloves
- Clean, dry towels for drying hair
Preparation steps
- Dress the affected person in clothing that can be washed separately.
- Place a towel over the shoulders to catch falling insects and debris.
- Apply a generous layer of oil to the entire length of hair, ensuring coverage from scalp to tips; oil immobilizes lice and eases combing.
- Cover the oiled hair with a plastic cap and leave for 15–20 minutes.
Comb‑out procedure
- Rinse hair with warm water, then apply a small amount of vinegar to the scalp; vinegar loosens the glue that secures nits to hair shafts.
- Using a fine‑tooth metal comb, start at the scalp and pull the comb through a section of hair in a single, steady motion toward the ends.
- After each pass, wipe the comb on a white paper towel to expose any captured insects; discard visible lice and nits.
- Repeat the combing process for the entire head, working in 1‑inch sections.
- Perform three complete comb‑out sessions at 2‑day intervals; this schedule eliminates newly hatched lice before they reach reproductive maturity.
Post‑treatment care
- Wash all bedding, hats, scarves, and hair accessories in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat.
- Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture to remove stray insects.
- Store unused combs in sealed containers until the infestation is confirmed cleared.
Preventive measures
- Avoid sharing combs, brushes, hats, or headphones.
- Inspect hair weekly for at least two weeks after the final comb‑out; repeat the combing process immediately if any live lice appear.
- Maintain short hair lengths where feasible, as shorter hair reduces the area requiring thorough combing.
By adhering strictly to the outlined steps, lice can be eradicated from long hair without recourse to prescription medications or professional services.