Lice combs-meilin plastic

Nit, or lice egg, removal from hair is the most important part of head lice control and using the proper lice comb is at the heart of the process. Metal combs, with stiff tines (teeth) and narrow slots, will effectively remove or crush nits while plastic combs "skip over" nits and are not as effective. Plastic combs should be used to untangle long hair before nit-combing with a metal comb.

Metal head lice combs are getting easier to find these days. Not too long ago you had to look far and wide to find a decent metal comb. Manufacturers are finally getting the message that fine-tined, metal combs are by far the best defense against head lice.

You'll also need a flexible, bright light source that can be directed at the scalp. Use a CFL-type bulb to reduce heat.


The metal-tined lice comb (dark blue, left) is far more effective for nit removal. The plastic comb (light blue, right) is better for untangling hair. These combs are only examples.

Metal nit combs come in either short or long-tined versions. Short tines work best with short hair while longer tines work better with longer hair. The proper metal comb, a good light and a little time (well, maybe a lot of time!) is the best approach to head lice control.

You may be able to find a good head lice comb locally. If not here's a metal lice comb at meilin-plastic.com.

Lice comb:Check the hair carefully to ensure no lice or nits remain in the hair.