What home methods can be used to remove lice? - briefly
Effective household treatments include applying a fine-toothed comb to hair soaked in warm water and a small amount of olive oil or mayonnaise, using a 1 % permethrin lotion, and washing bedding and clothing in hot water followed by a high‑heat dryer cycle.
What home methods can be used to remove lice? - in detail
Effective removal of head‑lice infestations can be achieved with several household techniques that combine mechanical extraction and natural treatments.
First, a fine‑toothed nit comb should be employed on wet, conditioned hair. Apply a generous amount of a thick conditioner or a specialized lice‑removal lotion, then run the comb from scalp to tips in small sections. Repeat the process every 2–3 days for at least two weeks to capture newly hatched nits.
Second, a saline or vinegar rinse can weaken the adhesive that secures nits to hair shafts. Mix one part white vinegar with two parts water, soak the hair for 10 minutes, then comb thoroughly. The acidic environment loosens the cement, allowing easier removal.
Third, essential‑oil preparations offer a chemical‑free option. Combine 10 drops of tea‑tree oil, 5 drops of lavender oil, and a carrier such as olive oil in a small bowl. Apply the mixture to the scalp, cover with a shower cap for 30 minutes, then comb out the lice. Reapply the blend nightly for a week to disrupt the life cycle.
Fourth, a heated oil treatment can suffocate insects. Warm a tablespoon of coconut or olive oil to a safe temperature, massage into the scalp, and cover with a plastic cap for 30 minutes. The oil blocks the respiratory openings of lice, leading to death. Afterward, comb out the dead insects.
Fifth, a thorough cleaning of personal items reduces reinfestation risk. Wash clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 130 °F/54 °C) and dry on high heat. Seal non‑washable items in airtight bags for two weeks to starve any surviving lice.
Finally, regular inspection of the scalp and immediate removal of any detected lice prevents spread. Use a bright light and a mirror to examine the hairline, behind ears, and nape of the neck.
Combining these methods—mechanical combing, acidic rinses, essential‑oil solutions, heated oil suffocation, and environmental sanitation—provides a comprehensive, non‑chemical strategy for eliminating head lice at home.