Wet combing, without the panic.

Queensland Health’s conditioner-and-comb method. It is slower than a lotion and more reliable than hoping. White conditioner makes findings easier to see. A comb is the tool. A phone is not.

We know this cartoon is not clear. That is why this is here, in writing: never hit a child with a phone. Never hit a nit with a phone either. The phone is for looking — a torch, a magnifier, a camera. It is not a paddle, a comb, a lotion, or Nan’s preferred method.

1. Step 1

   Set up

   Good light, a metal fine-tooth lice comb from a pharmacy, plenty of conditioner (white makes findings easier to see), tissues, and 20–40 unhurried minutes.

2. Step 2

   Saturate dry hair

   Queensland Health: apply conditioner generously to dry hair, scalp to ends. Conditioner stuns lice and helps the comb slide.

3. Step 3

   Detangle first

   Use a wide-tooth comb so the fine comb does not tug. Work in sections with clips if the hair is long or thick.

4. Step 4

   Comb each section

   Place the lice comb flat against the scalp and draw through to the ends. Wipe the comb on a tissue after every stroke. Comb each section at least five times.

5. Step 5

   Look at the tissue

   Live lice are tan/brown with legs and move. Nits are tiny ovals stuck to hair. Dandruff looks flaky and loose.

6. Step 6

   Repeat the calendar

   If you are treating with combing alone, repeat every second day for 10–14 days, until no live lice are found.