What to use to remove louse nits? - briefly
A fine‑toothed nit comb, applied to wet hair with conditioner, physically extracts the eggs. An OTC pediculicide containing permethrin or dimethicone can be used afterward to kill any remaining nits.
What to use to remove louse nits? - in detail
Effective removal of lice eggs requires a combination of mechanical and chemical strategies.
A fine-tooth nit comb, preferably with teeth spaced 0.2 mm apart, is the primary tool for physically extracting attached eggs. Use the comb on damp hair after applying a conditioning agent to reduce slippage. Comb from the scalp outward in sections, cleaning the comb after each pass to prevent re‑depositing eggs.
Chemical agents that loosen the cement-like attachment of nits enhance comb efficiency. Products containing dimethicone, a silicone‑based substance, coat the hair shaft and dissolve the glue, allowing easier removal. Over‑the‑counter preparations labeled “nit‑removing lotion” typically list dimethicone as the active ingredient.
Pediculicidal shampoos with pyrethrin, permethrin, or malathion act on live lice but have limited effect on eggs. When used in conjunction with a nit‑comb, they reduce the overall infestation burden. Follow the manufacturer’s timing instructions; a second application after 7–10 days targets newly hatched lice before they lay additional eggs.
Natural oils, such as olive, coconut, or tea‑tree oil, can be applied to hair before combing. The oil penetrates the egg shell, softening the adhesive layer. Apply a generous amount, leave for 15–20 minutes, then proceed with the fine‑tooth comb.
Acidic solutions like white vinegar or lemon juice break down the protein matrix that secures nits to hair. Dilute vinegar with equal parts water, saturate the scalp, wait 10 minutes, and comb thoroughly.
A practical protocol:
- Wash hair with a pediculicidal shampoo, adhering to the recommended exposure time.
- Rinse and apply a dimethicone‑based nit‑removing lotion; leave for the specified period.
- Distribute a natural oil or diluted vinegar over the hair, allow the designated soak time.
- Use a fine‑tooth nit comb on small sections, cleaning the comb after each pass.
- Repeat the combing process daily for a week, then every other day for an additional week to capture any hatching nits.
Environmental control complements personal treatment. Wash bedding, clothing, and hats in hot water (≥ 60 °C) or seal items in a plastic bag for two weeks. Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture to remove stray hairs containing eggs.
By integrating a precise comb, a silicone‑based loosening agent, optional natural oils or acidic rinses, and a structured repetition schedule, complete eradication of lice eggs becomes achievable.