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How to Get Rid of Head Lice & Eggs

Head lice seem to be more prevalent in schools every year. Infestations are highly contagious and can be contracted without even touching a person who has head lice. It can be a difficult problem to get rid of and may require several treatments. There are a number of ways to treat head lice. Choosing the option that works best for you may take some trial and error. Lice can become immune to treatments; so if they continue to recur, switching treatments may be the answer.

Things You'll Need

  • Lice shampoo such as Rid
  • Nit comb
  • Lice spray for furniture
  • Hot water
  • Large plastic bags
  • Bleach
  • Mayonnaise
  • Shower cap
  • Vinegar
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Instructions

  1. Treating With Lice Shampoo

    • 1

      Wash your hair with a shampoo designed to kill lice. Leave on for 10 minutes before rinsing. Some shampoos' usage instructions vary slightly, so always read the directions before beginning.

    • 2

      It is recommended that you treat each person in the household for head lice in order to prevent re-infestation.

    • 3

      Divide the hair into small sections and begin combing through one section with a nit comb.

    • 4

      After several swipes through this section of hair, rinse the comb in hot water.

    • 5

      Comb through other sections of the hair as above.

    • 6

      Repeat the shampooing and combing for nits at least twice to ensure that all head lice are fully removed.

    • 7

      Now you need to spray all furniture and carpeting in your home with an insecticide spray made for lice treatment. Spray items thoroughly.

    • 8

      Wash your bedding in very hot water, and dry in a clothes dryer.

    • 9

      Also wash all stuffed animals and other soft toys, or enclose them in closed plastic bags for a month.

    • 10

      Make a solution of hot water and bleach, and soak any hats, hair accessories and brushes in it.

    • 11

      Check periodically for the next few weeks for nits and lice in your hair. Repeat treatment as necessary.

    Home Remedy for Treating Head Lice

    • 12

      One natural alternative for treating head lice is to cover your hair completely in mayonnaise. Be sure to soak every strand.

    • 13

      Now cover your mayonnaise-filled hair with a plastic shower cap and allow to sit for two hours. This treatment works by smothering the lice and eggs to kill them.

    • 14

      Remove the shower cap and shampoo your hair. You may need to wash your hair several times to get all the mayonnaise out.

    • 15

      Now rinse your hair in vinegar. Vinegar dissolves the "glue" that secures head lice eggs to your hair, so it's easier to comb the nits out.

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