Lice often infect the scalp and hair of children, as they hop from head to head in playgroups and during close encounters. Children who share hats and combs may also spread the tiny parasites. Typical treatments for lice include medicated shampoos and over-the-counter medicines, though these treatments are harsh and unsafe for small children. Instead, KidsHealth recommends hand removal of lice and nits, using a fine-tooth comb. Home remedies include products to immobilize lice and simplify the combing process.
Petrolium Jelly
Petroleum jelly is a fat-based substance that has a thick, smooth consistency, which makes it an ideal home remedy for nit removal. People can apply the product to the hair shaft, coating each strand carefully, and then use a fine-tooth comb to slide through sections of the hair. This technique helps pull nits from the hair without effort, and is especially helpful for people with curly or coarse hair that is otherwise difficult to comb.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is rich and healthy cooking oil that is also a widely used beauty aid. As an excellent moisturizer, it is often the main ingredient in home remedies for the skin and hair. As a lice treatment, its moisturizing properties make it effective at relieving the itch that occurs with a lice infestation. Because it also softens and detangles hair, it simplifies combing techniques for simple nit removal.
Mayonnaise
Mayonnaise, like olive oil and petroleum jelly, can be used to coat the hair before combing out nits. Headlice.org reports that people reach for this remedy as an alternative to pesticides because it involves less risk, though its effectiveness is unproven. After combing mayonnaise or other products through the hair, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends soaking combs in hot water of at least 130 degrees F for five to 10 minutes.
