Lice: how to remove them from long hair? - briefly
Apply a WHO‑approved lice shampoo, let it act as directed, then comb the wet hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb from scalp to tips, removing every nymph and egg; repeat this combing every 48 hours for ten days. Perform a second shampoo treatment after one week to eradicate any newly hatched lice.
Lice: how to remove them from long hair? - in detail
Removing lice from lengthy hair requires a systematic approach that combines chemical treatment, mechanical removal, and thorough cleaning of the environment.
Begin with a suitable pediculicide approved for use on long hair. Apply the product according to the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring complete coverage from scalp to the tips. Leave the solution on for the recommended time, then rinse thoroughly with warm water.
After the chemical step, use a fine‑toothed lice comb. Divide the hair into sections of 2–3 inches, secure each with a clip, and comb from the scalp outward to the ends. Wipe the comb on a white paper towel after each pass to detect live nits. Repeat the combing process at least twice, spaced 7–10 days apart, to capture any newly hatched insects.
Supplementary measures enhance effectiveness:
- Wash all recently worn clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks to starve any surviving lice.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and vehicle seats to remove stray hairs that may contain nits.
For resistant infestations, consider a second‑generation, non‑neurotoxic treatment such as dimethicone, which suffocates lice without chemical toxicity. Apply a second dose 9–10 days after the initial application to eradicate any survivors.
Throughout treatment, avoid sharing combs, hats, or hair accessories. Regularly inspect the scalp for at least four weeks, performing a quick combing session every 2–3 days to confirm eradication.
By adhering to this protocol—chemical application, meticulous combing, repeated treatment, and environmental sanitation—lice can be eliminated from long hair efficiently and safely.