How to remove nits and lice from the head? - briefly
Apply a pediculicide shampoo, then comb wet, conditioned hair with a fine-toothed nit comb, moving from scalp to tip repeatedly to extract lice and eggs. Wash bedding and clothing in hot water and repeat the treatment after 7‑10 days to prevent reinfestation.
How to remove nits and lice from the head? - in detail
Effective elimination of head lice and their eggs requires a systematic approach that combines mechanical removal, chemical treatment, and environmental control.
Begin with a thorough inspection. Use a fine‑toothed lice comb on dry hair, sectioning the scalp into 1‑inch strips. Run the comb from the scalp to the ends, wiping each pass with a damp cloth. Discard any captured insects and nits. Repeat this process every 2–3 days for two weeks to catch newly hatched lice before they mature.
Select an appropriate treatment. Over‑the‑counter pediculicides containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin are effective when applied to dry hair, left for the recommended duration, then rinsed. For resistant infestations, a prescription lotion with 0.05 % malathion or a 0.65 % ivermectin solution may be prescribed. Follow label instructions precisely; avoid excessive application to prevent scalp irritation.
After chemical treatment, perform a second combing session while the hair is still damp. This removes dead lice and residual nits, reducing the risk of re‑infestation. Use a fine comb specifically designed for lice removal; regular brushes are insufficient.
Address personal items and surroundings. Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks, as lice cannot survive beyond 48 hours without a host. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed bag.
Implement preventive measures. Advise regular head checks, especially after group activities. Encourage avoidance of sharing combs, hats, scarves, or hair accessories. In institutional settings, notify the appropriate authority to coordinate a coordinated response.
Monitor progress. Re‑inspect the scalp after seven days; if live lice are still present, repeat the chemical treatment once more, adhering to the product’s safety interval. Continue combing for another week to ensure complete eradication.
Document each step, including dates of treatment, products used, and observations. This record aids in identifying persistent issues and informs future interventions.