mechanical clearance of head lice

Last reviewed 01/2018

• in this method, hair is wet combed with a fine tooth detector comb for about half an hour (duration differs with hair length and thickness), until all the lice are removed; this process is then repeated every 3rd or 4th day for at least two weeks - if further lice are found then the whole process must be repeated until no full-grown lice are seen in 3 consecutive combing sessions (1)
• during the first wet combing session adult lice and nymph are removed from the head. Repeated combing will remove nymphs hatching from eggs which were laid before the first combing session (1)
• there is no evidence that mechanical methods of louse clearance are effective and therefore, at present, this method cannot be recommended as a reliable treatment for the whole population
• this treatment method may, however, be considered in motivated families who do not wish to use insecticides

Reference:

• 1. CKS. Safe practical clinical answers. (2007) head lice
• 2. Prescribers' Journal (1998); 38 (2): 80-6.
• 3. Dermatology in Practice (2002);10(4): 26-29.