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Combing is a safe, non-toxic method of lice control. It is a very old method, and nit combs have been found in Ancient Egyptian tombs! It is completely safe. When done properly, it takes time and requires patience on the part of parent and child. You can completely avoid insecticide shampoos/rinses if you comb the hair to remove lice and nits, but you must be patient and careful. Even if you use an insecticidal shampoo, combing is the only way to remove nits from the hair.
1. Getting ready. First, buy a special metal lice comb.(This won't work with an ordinary plastic comb.)
This shows the size of nits compared with a pin!Other items that you will need are:
hair clips
large towel to put around shoulders
tissues
bowl of water with a little dishwashing liquid.
Combing should be done in a well lighted area. Seat the child so her/his head is just below eye level. It also might be a good idea to have something fun to entertain the child that does not require much physical activity.
2. Prepare the hair by getting it thoroughly wet, and using any hair conditioner on it. Use a regular comb or brush to remove the snags.
3. Combing.
* Separate a mass of hair that is slightly wider than the width of the metal lice comb and about 1cm in the other direction. It is important to separate the hair into small sections so you can more easily see lice and nits.
* Hold the mass of hair with one hand. With the other hand, hold the lice comb in a slanting position with the teeth toward the head.
* Insert the comb as close to the scalp as possible since the eggs are first laid close to the scalp. Gently pull the comb slowly through the hair several times. Check the hair carefully.
* Comb one section at a time and check each section again. Pin the hair out of the way curling it flat against the head.
* Whenever you comb out nits or live lice, dunk the comb in the soapy water. Make sure the comb is clean before you use it on the hair again. Frequently remove hair and other debris from the comb with a tissue. When the bowl is full, flush its contents down the toilet and refill the bowl with soapy water. Continue combing.
* After Combing, flush the contents of the bowl down the toilet. Shampoo the hair at least twice to remove the oil. When the hair is dry, check for stray nits and remove those hairs individually with a pair of small, pointed scissors.
It is VERY important to remove all of the eggs (nits).
4. Cleaning Up. Soak the lice comb for 15 minutes in hot ammonia water (1 tablespoon ammonia to 1 quart hot water). Or, use water only and boil the metal comb for 15 minutes.
Use an old toothbrush to clean the comb. The comb can now be used on another family member. Wash towels in a washing machine in hot, soapy water and followed with a hot dryer. At this time, you may also want to wash bedding and recently worn clothing.