Wet Combing Instructions for Head Lice Removal
Manual removal of lice and their nits is the safest and most effective method of treatment. Wet combing breaks the reproductive cycle by removing all lice, nymphs, and nits before they can mature and reproduce. Unlike chemical treatments, head lice cannot become resistant to this method because no pesticides are used.
By using the Nit Nit Professional Lice Comb® with Nit Nit Lice Comb-Out Oil, you can completely clear an infestation and help prevent it from coming back.
What You’ll Need
- Nit Nit Lice Comb-Out Oil (for lubrication and suffocating lice)
- Nit Nit Professional Lice Comb®
- Head Lice Magnifying Visor or magnifying glass (optional but helpful)
- Hair clips for sectioning
- A detangling comb
- Tail comb for precision parting
- Tweezers (for stubborn nits)
- White paper towels or cloths
- Bowl of hot, soapy water (to rinse the comb)
Getting Started
Work in a brightly lit area.
Make sure the person being treated is comfortable.
Since this can take some time, set up an activity (like a book, movie, or game) to keep them occupied.
Adjust your seating so you’re comfortable too.
Step-by-Step Wet Combing
1. Apply Nit Nit Lice Comb-Out Oil generously to dry hair, covering the scalp and all strands from root to tip.
2. Use a detangling comb to spread the oil evenly and remove knots.
3. Divide the hair into four quadrants and secure each with clips.
4. Start with one quadrant. Release a small horizontal section at the bottom of the hairline. Clip the rest back.
5. Place the lice comb at the scalp and pull it firmly through the entire length of the hair, root to tip.
Comb each section from both the underside and topside of the hair, since nits attach to only one side of the shaft.
6. Wipe the comb onto a white cloth after each pass. Spread out the oil and inspect for lice and nits.
7. Check all sides of each section carefully. Repeat combing or use tweezers if needed.
8. Continue working upward in small sections until the entire quadrant is complete. Re-comb each section several times.
9. Move on to the next quadrant until all four have been thoroughly combed.
10. Once complete, do a final full-head comb-through to catch anything missed. With long hair, treat it as a ponytail and comb through completely.
11. Wash out the Nit Nit Lice Comb-Out Oil and style as usual.

Aftercare
Clean your tools: soak combs, clips, towels, and rags in hot, soapy water. Sterilize your Nit Nit Lice Comb® by boiling for one minute.
Repeat every 3–4 days until lice are fully gone—usually 2–3 weeks.
Even once clear, perform a monthly preventative comb-out with Nit Nit Lice Comb-Out Oil. This ensures any new lice are caught early before becoming a full infestation.
Tip for Parents: Lice eggs (nits) are microscopic during the first 3 days, which is why consistent combing is key. Skipping sessions gives them time to hatch and restart the cycle.
