The use of folk remedies, such as disinfectants or kerosene, can be dangerous and on occasion has had tragic results. Despite advertising claims, all lice and nits are not killed with the initial treatment. The effectiveness of residual product on the hair may be reduced by shampoos, vinegar, or other hair care products. Nit removal is an important adjunct to insecticide treatments. While pediculicides kill most nits, survivors can cause an reinfestation.
Dead nits remain attached to the hair shaft until they are combed out or the hair falls out.
Some pediculicides are packaged with a plastic nit comb, but experienced nit pickers know that metal lice combs work better . A new product called Clear claims to make nit removal easier by dissolving the attachment glue. To prevent reinfestation, all household members should be inspected for head lice and, if nits or mobile lice are found, treated. Application of pediculicides should be combined with cleaning of recently worn clothing, bedding, combs, brushes, and head gear. Articles that cannot be washed in the laundry can be tumbled in a hot clothes dryer for 20 minutes, or sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks.