When one is dealing with a hair lice infection, it is also necessary to deal with nits which are the eggs of adult lice. The eggs are attached to individual strands of hair via a glue like substance secreted by the adult louse and can be very difficult to remove. The eggs are laid by an adult female and will hatch in approximately a week. While a medicated shampoo can be used for lice removal, the eggs will be unaffected. Unless the eggs are removed, the infestation will continue.

Many solutions exist for removing nits, but the procedure is typically tedious and time consuming. The easiest removal method involves using a fine-toothed comb""preferably metal""to scrutinize each hair strand. Keeping the hair wet is recommended. A magnifying glass may be helpful because it makes it easier to find the eggs. It is imperative that each hair strand is inspected for nits because if even one remains, it will hatch and the infection will start all over again.

After you remove the louse eggs, every article of clothing has to be washed because they might be harboring more eggs or adults. Bleach should be used whenever possible just to be sure that all the eggs and adults have been destroyed. Combs or accessories should also be thoroughly bleached and sealed in a plastic bag for weeks if necessary as they might contain nits as well.

Removing louse eggs from hair can be a difficult process, so there are some methods that may make it easier. One way is to soak the infected person's hair in white vinegar prior to removing the eggs. This will loosen the glue holding the eggs to the hair and make their removal easier. Soaking the comb in vinegar prior to using may also help. Another method that may loosen the eggs is applying heat to the hair just before attempting to remove the eggs.

Before you try an alternative type of treatment, consider it carefully. It may seem wise to use a natural remedy, but many such remedies have not been tested and could have consequences. Mayonnaise is popularly used as an alternate remedy, but it is difficult to remove it from the hair and sometimes it will become rancid. Random treatments are sometimes even lethal.

There are different sources available to help you with an infestation of lice. Doctors and pharmacists can advise you on products for dealing with the louse eggs. Should your child become infected, the on-site school nurse will also have this information.