Your Complete Guide to Killing Nits

Nits are eggs laid by adult female lice, and are much harder to remove than head lice. Because they require heat to hatch, they are located near the scalp and stick to hair follicles with a special adhesive that resists typical lice removal products. The areas near the nape of the neck and behind the ear are the places where most nits are found. Removing nits is a bit more difficult than removing lice, but it is important to do so. This is because if left unchecked, they will hatch and re-infest the head even after all adult lice have been killed. The hatched lice will then grow up to lay more eggs, and the cycle will repeat itself endlessly until the root of the problem is eradicated: the eggs. Here’s how to do so:

Vinegar

The very first step to removing nits is to first get rid of all the adult lice. Even if you clear out the hair of all eggs but allow the adult lice to remain, they will just lay eggs again. Nit eggs are typically covered in a layer of a adhesive substance that allows them to stick to hair follicles. Using vinegar, which contains chemicals which can dissolve this adhesive, you can make it easier to remove lice eggs. Use warm water to thoroughly wet your hair before pouring a large amount of vinegar over your head. Keep the vinegar away from the eyes! Rinse your hair with warm water afterwards, before using a nit comb and magnifying glass to remove the nits from your hair.

Tea Tree Oil

Not only does tea tree oil effectively kill adult head lice, it also takes care of eggs! Because of its antibacterial, antimicrobial and antifungal qualities, tea tree oil mixed with shampoo can be a great way to treat lice infestations. Simply mix 2-4 drops of tea tree oil, 2-4 drops of lavender essential oil and shampoo and apply to the hair. Leave on for about 30 minutes before washing off with warm water. Gently use a nit comb to remove all residual nits and lice from the hair. You may need to repeat every day for a week.

Lice Killers

While most lice killers are produced to kill adult lice only, there are some which can remove both lice and nits. With lice killers, it is important that you follow the instructions on the package for maximum results. However, medicated lice treatment products may not be suitable for children aged 1 or less. If none of the above remedies work, you might have to look for a professional lice removal service to take care of the problem for you. Lice Troopers are the leading lice removal services in Pembroke Pines, Hollywood and other areas across Florida.