Nits and lice – how to get rid of them at home? - briefly
Use a fine-tooth comb on wet, conditioned hair after applying a pediculicide shampoo or a diluted vinegar solution, repeating the combing every 2–3 days for two weeks; simultaneously wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water and vacuum the living area.
Nits and lice – how to get rid of them at home? - in detail
Head lice infestations begin with adult insects laying eggs (nits) attached to hair shafts close to the scalp. Detection relies on visual inspection using a fine-toothed comb on damp, conditioned hair. Live lice appear as grayish specks; nits are oval, brownish and firmly glued to the strand.
Effective home management follows a three‑step protocol:
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Chemical or physical treatment – Apply an over‑the‑counter pediculicide (e.g., permethrin 1 % lotion) according to the package instructions, leaving it on the scalp for the recommended time before rinsing. For families preferring non‑chemical options, heat‑based devices that raise hair temperature to 50 °C for several minutes can kill both insects and eggs without residue.
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Manual removal – After treatment, comb hair with a metal nit‑comb while the hair remains wet. Start at the scalp and work toward the ends, wiping the comb after each pass. Repeat the combing process every 2–3 days for two weeks to capture any newly hatched lice.
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Environmental decontamination – Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥60 °C) and dry on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks. Vacuum carpets and upholstery to remove stray hairs that may contain nits.
Follow‑up inspection on day 7 and day 14 confirms eradication; any residual live lice require a second treatment cycle. Preventive measures include avoiding head‑to‑head contact, not sharing combs, hats, or hair accessories, and regularly checking children’s hair after group activities.