A nit comb is a specialized, fine-toothed tool designed for the physical removal of head lice and their eggs, known as nits, from the hair shaft. Combing provides a reliable method to physically extract the bugs and eggs that may survive chemical treatments, especially when used in combination with a lice treatment product or a thick hair conditioner. While self-application presents the challenge of blind spots, a methodical approach using mirrors makes thorough removal achievable.
Essential Preparation for Self-Combing
Preparing the environment and hair correctly sets the foundation for a successful combing session. Gathering all necessary materials prevents interruptions during the process, which can take an hour or more depending on hair length and thickness. Tools should include a quality fine-toothed metal nit comb, hair clips or ties for sectioning, paper towels, and a magnifying mirror to aid in inspection. A bright light source is necessary to clearly visualize the translucent nits and small lice.
Hair should be damp or thoroughly wet, as this slows the movement of adult lice and facilitates the comb’s glide. Applying a generous amount of thick conditioner or a lice treatment product lubricates the hair strands, helping to loosen the nits’ adhesive bond. Before beginning with the nit comb, all tangles must be removed using a regular wide-toothed comb.
Divide the hair into small, manageable sections, approximately the width of the nit comb. Clipping the sections that are not currently being worked on keeps them out of the way and ensures every part of the scalp is systematically covered. This sectioning is important for self-combing, as it prevents skipping areas like the nape of the neck and behind the ears, where lice frequently lay their eggs.
Step-by-Step Technique for Effective Self-Removal
Begin by taking one of the pre-divided small sections of hair and positioning the nit comb’s teeth flush against the scalp, aiming to get as close to the root as possible. Since head lice lay eggs within a quarter-inch of the scalp, a tight starting position is necessary to catch newly laid nits.
Once the comb is correctly positioned, pull it slowly and steadily through the hair section, moving from the root all the way to the tip. Maintaining a consistent angle and gentle pressure helps the fine teeth catch the sticky nits and any adult lice present. After each complete stroke, the comb must be inspected under the bright light to check for any captured parasites or eggs.
For the back of the head, using a combination of a handheld mirror and a wall mirror is helpful for checking blind spots during the process. Comb each small section multiple times, typically three to four strokes, before considering it complete and moving to the next section. Re-combing the same section ensures maximum removal. Once a section is completely combed, clip it away from the rest of the untreated hair to maintain separation and track progress.
Sanitation and Follow-Up Schedule
Proper sanitation of the comb during the session prevents reintroducing lice or nits back into the hair. The comb should be wiped clean immediately onto a white paper towel or tissue after each stroke to remove any debris, lice, or nits. The comb can also be rinsed between passes in a bowl of hot, soapy water to dislodge any remaining material from the teeth.
The nit comb and any hair accessories used must be thoroughly cleaned to prevent future infestation. A deep cleaning involves soaking the comb in hot water for five to ten minutes to kill any surviving lice or eggs. Alternatively, the comb can be soaked in a pediculicide treatment or rubbing alcohol for up to an hour for disinfection.
Following the initial combing session, a follow-up schedule is necessary for complete eradication. The entire combing process should be repeated every two to three days for a minimum of two weeks, totaling approximately seven sessions. This schedule is designed to catch any newly hatched nymphs before they mature into adults capable of laying new eggs, thereby breaking the reproductive cycle.