What can be used to comb out lice and nits? - briefly
A metal or plastic nit comb with 0.2‑0.3 mm teeth, used after applying an approved pediculicide, removes both lice and their eggs. Comb the hair in sections, wiping the comb after each pass for optimal removal.
What can be used to comb out lice and nits? - in detail
A fine-toothed lice comb, often called a nit comb, is the primary tool for mechanically removing head‑lice insects and their eggs. The comb’s teeth are spaced 0.2–0.5 mm apart, allowing the device to catch both adult lice and the oval nits attached to hair shafts. Metal versions (stainless steel or titanium) retain sharpness after repeated use, while high‑density plastic models are lightweight and resistant to breakage. Some combs feature a dual‑edge design: one side with wider spacing for detangling, the other with ultra‑fine teeth for thorough extraction.
Effective removal typically follows these steps:
- Wet the hair with a conditioner or a dedicated lice‑removal spray; the lubricant reduces friction and helps release the glue that secures nits to the shaft.
- Section the hair into 1‑inch strips using clips or hair ties.
- Starting at the scalp, draw the fine‑tooth side of the comb through each section from root to tip in a slow, steady motion.
- After each pass, wipe the teeth on a white paper towel or rinse under running water to expose any captured insects.
- Repeat the process on the same section until no live lice or nits are visible, then move to the next strip.
Supplementary products can increase success rates:
- Lice‑removing shampoos or lotions containing dimethicone, a silicone‑based compound that suffocates insects and loosens the cement holding nits.
- Essential‑oil formulations (e.g., tea‑tree, neem, or lavender) applied after combing to deter re‑infestation; these should be diluted to avoid scalp irritation.
- Heat‑based devices that gently warm the comb to 40–45 °C, weakening the adhesive bond without damaging hair.
Safety considerations include:
- Avoiding sharp metal combs on fragile scalps; select rounded‑edge designs for children.
- Rinsing the hair thoroughly after each combing session to eliminate residual conditioner or chemical agents.
- Repeating the combing routine every 2–3 days for at least two weeks, matching the life cycle of the parasite.
By combining a high‑quality nit comb with a suitable lubricating or suffocating agent and adhering to a systematic comb‑through schedule, complete eradication of head‑lice and their eggs can be achieved without reliance on prescription insecticides.