Methods for getting rid of nits, include medicated shampoos, picking off the nits, and using fine-toothed nit combs. Hair as well as clothing and bedding should be treated to ensure that the infestation is eliminated, and treatment should generally be repeated more than once to ensure thorough eradication.
Confirm that there is a lice infestation before proceeding to the treatment. Some medicated shampoos have strong chemicals and should be used with caution. Do not blow dry hair after applying the medication, as the chemicals can be flammable.
Shampoos designed to get rid of nits are available over-the-counter or by prescription. The strength and type of the active chemicals in them vary. To be on the safe side, consult with a doctor about which shampoo to use.
Strictly follow the instructions on the label. The instructions may caution the user from using other types of shampoo that may remove the chemical that kills the nits. It is normal for there to be a period of time for the shampoo to be left on.
Children under two years old may not be able to use medicated shampoo as it can be too strong for them. In this case, the most common treatment is to pick off the nits and lice manually or with a nit comb. Washing the hair with white vinegar and applying olive oil can also get rid of nits.
Fine-toothed nit combs are often used to get rid of dead nits after shampooing or for treating minor infestations. Ordinary combs will not work as the gap between their teeth is too wide to trap the nits. When using a nit comb, comb from the root all the way to the tip. Comb every hair in order to prevent leaving any nits.
The treatment process should be repeated several more times for at least a few days to a couple of weeks. This is to ensure that all nits and lice are completely eradicated. Even a small number of eggs that survive the treatment can reproduce rapidly and start a new infestation. Periodically check for traces of nits even if it seems that they are gone.
Clean any object where lice can breed to fully get rid of nits. This is especially true for the things the infected person regularly uses. Bed sheets, clothes, hats, stuffed toys, and other such items should be decontaminated in order to prevent another infection. Washing them in hot water is usually sufficient to kill off the nits.
