How to Care for Nits
Nits, or lice eggs, can develop into mature head lice if you don't remove them from the hair and kill them. Lice are tiny insects that feed on your blood, causing itching and irritation to the scalp and neck. Although lice shampoos and creams may be effective in killing mature lice, these preparations may not kill nits. Using a nit comb can help you ensure that all nits are removed from the hair, preventing a reinfestation.
Things You'll Need
- Lice shampoo or cream
- White vinegar
- Towel
- Clips
- Nit comb
- Dishwashing liquid
Instructions
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1
Apply a lice-killing shampoo, cream or other product to the hair. Follow package directions for use. If you have long hair, you may need more than one application to completely cover the hair.
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2
Rinse your hair with white vinegar and let the vinegar sit on the hair for 10 minutes. Towel dry the hair.
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3
Use clips to divide the hair into sections. Work with one section at a time. Using two sets of clips in different colors can help you keep track of completed and uncompleted sections.
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4
Run a fine-toothed nit comb through each section of hair. Start from the crown of the head, working the comb slowly down the length of the hair shaft.
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5
Kill the mature lice and nits caught in the teeth of the comb by dipping the comb into a solution of hot water and dishwashing liquid.
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6
Repeat the combing process until all nits have been removed. Use the nit comb every day for two weeks to check for new nits or nits you may have missed.
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7
Flush the water containing the nits and lice down the toilet.
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Tips & Warnings
Wash any combs and brushes used on a lice-infested person in hot, soapy water to kill any lingering nits. A one-hour soak in rubbing alcohol will also kill nits and lice on combs and brushes.
Although vacuuming will help remove lice that have fallen on the floor, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises that a full-scale housecleaning isn't necessary because lice survive less than one to two days after falling off a person.
Don't forget to wash clothing or bedding that have come in contact with the infested person. Wash items in water that is at least 130 degrees fahrenheit and place in the dryer on the hottest setting for 20 minutes. Place stuffed animals or other items that can't be washed in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
Ask your doctor before using lice shampoos or creams if you have asthma or allergies or are pregnant or nursing. Your doctor may prefer that you avoid using these products because they contain chemicals and pesticides.
References
Resources
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