How to remove lice with a comb? - briefly
Wet the hair, apply a conditioner, then run a fine‑toothed nit comb from the scalp outward, cleaning the comb after each pass; repeat the process every 2–3 days until no lice or nits remain.
How to remove lice with a comb? - in detail
Removing head‑lice infestations relies on mechanical extraction with a specialized fine‑toothed comb. The process consists of preparation, combing technique, and post‑treatment care.
Begin by dampening the hair. Apply a generous amount of conditioner or a dedicated lice‑removal lotion, then allow the product to penetrate for several minutes. The moisture reduces friction and opens the hair cuticle, enabling the comb to glide smoothly and capture insects and nits.
Divide the scalp into sections no wider than two inches. Starting at the scalp, draw the comb through each section in a slow, steady motion toward the hair tip. After each pass, wipe the comb on a white tissue or rinse it in warm water to remove captured specimens. Repeat the stroke three times per section before moving to the next area. This repetition ensures that any lice that escaped the first pass are caught on subsequent passes.
Complete the combing cycle at least once daily for seven consecutive days. A second round of treatment after ten days eliminates newly hatched nits that escaped detection. Throughout the regimen, wash all clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water (≥60 °C) or place them in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks to prevent re‑infestation.
For optimal results, use a comb with teeth spaced 0.2–0.3 mm, designed specifically for lice removal. Avoid using regular hairbrushes, which lack the necessary density to seize nits. If resistant lice persist after two weeks, consider a second‑line chemical treatment under medical supervision.