Natural Method

• Children under two years old should not use any type of medication to remove lice from their hair. Parents will need a spray bottle, comb and some conditioner to do this. Fill the spray bottle with lukewarm water and spray your child's hair until it's wet, but not soaking wet. Now place a quarter-size amount of conditioner in the palm of your hand and rub your hands together. Run your hands through your child's hair. This will make it easier for you to comb out the nits. Separate your child's hair into sections and carefully comb out each section. Wipe the comb off in between two paper towels that you'll throw away. Repeat this procedure every two to three days until you have successfully removed all the nits.
  
  Tip: If you aren't fond of putting chemicals in your child's hair, you can also use this method for older children.
  
  

Over-the-Counter

• Most drug stores sell lice-removal kits. These kits contain an insecticide, a pair of plastic gloves and a fine-tooth comb called a nit comb. Mix the solution exactly as directed on the bottle, and buy enough for each member of your family. Apply the solution and allow it to remain on your child's head for as long as directed. Wash out the solution and comb the child's hair in sections as mentioned above, using the nit comb. Throw the gloves away when you're finished.
  
  Warning: If you don't get all the nits out the first time, they may hatch a week later. It's possible that you'll need to do the treatment again in seven days. Discuss this with your doctor first.
  
  

Prescription Medications

• Prescription medications are very strong and should kill your head lice the first time you use them. You must make an appointment to visit your doctor to get a diagnosis of head lice. Only then can your doctor write out a prescription for you. Ovide is an FDA-approved head-lice treatment that your doctor may prescribe. Purchase your own nit comb at the pharmacy or use a fine-tooth comb you already own at home. Make sure you boil the comb afterward if you plan on keeping it. Follow the docto'rs directions and treat everyone in the home.
  
  Warning: Individuals with epilepsy must get permission from their doctor before using any over-the-counter or prescription lice medications. These medications can cause seizures.