Currently we know of no safe solvent for removing nits from the hair. They are formulated as creams, shampoos, and lotions. Some require prescriptions, which generally are available from doctors. Many school nurses have an open prescription for lice medicine. Consult a doctor before using the Kwell on infants or during pregnancy.
Many pediculicides come with special combs for nit removal.
An infested person is treated by removing all clothing, then applying the pediculicide according to directions, then putting on clean clothes. Clothes, bedding, and other items contacted by the infested person within 48 hours should be washed in hot water with a detergent and dried in a clothes dryer. Alternate means of disinfecting articles include dry cleaning, isolation in a plastic bag for 10 days, or placing items in a freezer. Freezing is lethal to eggs, nymphs, and adults, and so is a temperature of 125 F for 30 minutes or more. To help prevent reinfestation, it is suggested that all family members be treated on the same day.