What should be used to remove lice and nits from long hair? - briefly
A medicated lice shampoo (e.g., permethrin or pyrethrin) applied according to label directions, followed by thorough combing with a fine‑toothed stainless‑steel nit comb, effectively eliminates both insects and their eggs in long hair.
What should be used to remove lice and nits from long hair? - in detail
Effective removal of lice and their eggs from long hair requires a combination of chemical treatment, mechanical extraction, and environmental decontamination.
A suitable pediculicide should contain either 1% permethrin, 0.5% malathion, or a dimethicone‑based formulation. Apply according to the product label, ensuring complete coverage from scalp to tips. Repeat the application after 7–10 days to eliminate any newly hatched insects.
Mechanical removal relies on a fine‑toothed nit comb with teeth spaced 0.2 mm apart. After the chemical step, section the hair into 2‑inch strands. Comb each section from scalp outward, wiping the comb on a white tissue after every pass. Continue until no live lice or viable nits are visible. Repeat the combing process daily for at least one week.
Adjunctive measures enhance efficacy:
- Apply a light coating of mineral oil, olive oil, or coconut oil before combing to loosen egg attachments.
- Use a high‑temperature blow dryer on a low setting to dry the hair after treatment; heat weakens nit adhesion.
- Wash pillowcases, hats, scarves, and hair accessories in hot water (≥60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat.
- Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture; seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for 48 hours.
Monitoring: Inspect the scalp every 24 hours for live insects. If live lice persist after two treatment cycles, consider a prescription‑strength option such as ivermectin lotion or oral ivermectin, administered under medical supervision.
Consistent application of these steps eliminates the infestation while minimizing re‑infestation risk.