How to remove nits and lice from hair? - briefly
Apply a pediculicide according to its instructions, then comb wet, conditioned hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb, removing each egg and louse; repeat the treatment and combing every 2–3 days for two weeks to ensure all stages are eradicated.
How to remove nits and lice from hair? - in detail
Removing nits and head‑lice requires a systematic approach that combines mechanical extraction, chemical treatment, and preventive measures.
First, isolate a well‑lit area and use a fine‑toothed nit comb (0.025 in spacing) on damp, conditioned hair. Begin at the scalp, pull the comb through each section, and wipe the teeth with a tissue after every pass. Dispose of collected material in a sealed bag. Continue until no live insects or viable eggs are visible.
Second, apply an approved pediculicide such as a 1 % permethrin lotion or a dimethicone‑based product. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions precisely: apply to dry hair, saturate the scalp and shaft, leave for the recommended duration (typically 10 minutes), then rinse thoroughly. Avoid using heat styling tools until the treatment has dried completely.
Third, repeat the combing process 7–10 days after the initial treatment to eliminate any newly hatched nymphs that survived the first application. A second dose of the chemical agent may be required if the product label advises a follow‑up treatment.
Fourth, launder all personal items that may harbor eggs: wash clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 130 °F/54 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes. Seal non‑washable items such as hairbrushes, combs, and hats in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks, or soak them in a 0.5 % dimethicone solution for 30 minutes.
Fifth, implement environmental controls to prevent re‑infestation: limit head‑to‑head contact, avoid sharing personal hair accessories, and inspect all household members regularly.
Key steps summarized:
- Wet‑comb with a fine nit comb, section by section.
- Apply a licensed pediculicide according to label directions.
- Repeat combing and treatment after one week.
- Wash or isolate all potentially contaminated items.
- Enforce hygiene practices that reduce transmission.
Adhering to this protocol maximizes eradication of both live lice and their eggs, ensuring complete resolution of the infestation.