A lice comb is a fine-toothed tool designed to mechanically remove head lice and their eggs, known as nits, from hair. This non-chemical method physically eliminates these insects and their adhesive egg casings. The comb’s closely spaced teeth capture even the smallest nits attached to hair strands.
Getting Ready to Comb
Before beginning the combing process, gather all necessary materials. You will need a high-quality lice comb, a generous amount of hair conditioner, and several towels to protect clothing and surfaces. Hair clips or ties are useful for sectioning the hair, and a magnifying glass can assist in identifying small nits. Keep a bowl of warm, soapy water nearby for cleaning the comb.
Begin by thoroughly detangling the hair, as knots can impede the comb’s movement. Apply a liberal amount of conditioner to the hair, ensuring it is evenly distributed from root to tip. The conditioner helps to stun the lice, making them less mobile, and also provides lubrication, allowing the comb to glide more easily through the hair.
Combing Techniques
Divide the hair into small, manageable sections, typically about one to two inches wide, using hair clips to secure uncombed areas. Starting from one side of the head, take one section and place the lice comb as close to the scalp as possible. The comb should be angled slightly so that its teeth are in full contact with the hair and scalp.
Draw the comb slowly and steadily down the entire length of the hair strand, from the root to the tip. After each pass, carefully examine the comb under good light, using a magnifying glass if needed, to check for any captured lice or nits. These will appear as tiny, reddish-brown insects or small, oval-shaped specks firmly attached to the hair.
Immediately after each pass, wipe the comb clean on a paper towel or rinse it thoroughly in the bowl of soapy water. This removes any lice or nits from the comb, preventing them from being redeposited onto other sections of the hair. Continue this process systematically, working through each small section of hair until the entire head has been meticulously combed.
Post-Combing Care
Once the entire head has been thoroughly combed, clean the lice comb completely to prevent any potential re-infestation. Submerge the comb in hot, soapy water for at least 10 minutes, or boil it for a few minutes, to ensure all remaining lice and nits are eliminated. After cleaning, dry the comb thoroughly and store it in a clean place.
Next, rinse the individual’s hair to remove the conditioner and any remaining debris. Wash the hair with regular shampoo. Any paper towels or tissues used to wipe the comb should be immediately sealed in a plastic bag and disposed of in a trash can outside the home. Inspect the surrounding environment, such as bedding and furniture, and consider checking other family members for signs of infestation.
What to Do if Lice Persist
Lice can sometimes persist even after diligent combing, often due to newly hatched nits that were too small to be seen or removed during initial sessions. To address this, repeat the combing process every three to four days for at least two weeks. This consistent schedule helps to break the life cycle of the lice by removing newly hatched nymphs before they can mature and lay more eggs.
If, after several weeks of consistent combing, lice continue to be a problem, or if the infestation appears to be spreading, consulting a healthcare professional is recommended. A doctor can offer further guidance, confirm the presence of an active infestation, and discuss other available treatment options. They may suggest alternative approaches or prescribe specific treatments if mechanical removal alone is not sufficient to resolve the issue.