Effective Methods for Lice Removal

Head lice are tiny wingless insects, about 2.5 to 4.5 mm long, which are found only on the scalp and in the hair. They survive by sucking blood from the scalp and usually stay close to the scalp for warmth and moisture. Lice lay a large number of eggs, known as nits, small white specks that are glued to the scalp or the hair close to the scalp. They are highly infectious and are easily passed between people. Thus, early detection and effective removal is essential. For this purpose, understanding the life cycle of lice is important. The nits hatch between 7 and 10 days, and the lice are mature enough to hatch eggs 10 to 14 days after that. Thus, treatment should last for at least a couple of weeks before you are certain of no head lice and nits.

There are several effective methods for lice removal. One of them is wet combing. For this method, you will have to first wash your hair. Squeeze your hair lightly to get rid of any excess moisture and then apply plenty of conditioner to your hair. Use a fine tooth comb and start combing your hair from root to tip. Do this very carefully as wet hair is generally more fragile than dry hair. Make sure you clean the comb after each stroke so that no lice and nits are left in it. You should continue this for at least 15 minutes and repeat it twice every week for as long as is required to completely rid your hair of lice and nits.

Wet combing can lead to hair loss. Therefore, another method of combing you could try is with oil. Apply warm oil to your hair and comb through making it tangle-free. Oil will make it easier for the lice and nits to glide off. Use the same instructions as for wet combing.

Both the above methods are useful as using chemical treatments often can make the lice resistant to them. However, chemical treatments are strong and can lead to effective lice removal pretty quickly, usually, in just 2 weeks. You should follow the instructions on the box carefully. Medicated lice and nits lotions are easily available over-the-counter at most pharmacies. Active ingredients you should look for include malathion, permethrin, and phenothrin. Make sure you use only medicated lotions and not other harmful chemicals.

Lately, herbal treatments are also available for lice and nit removal. Neem oil contains ecdysones that prevent head lice from feeding and breeding and unhatched eggs from opening. Thus, after a while, the infestation will reduce and be eliminated.