Dealing with a lice infestation is never pleasant, and when you have dreadlocks, the process can be even more challenging due to the unique texture and structure of your hair. However, it is possible to effectively remove lice from dreadlocks with patience and the right approach. 

Below is a step-by-step guide that outlines how to remove lice from dreadlocks and regain a healthy scalp.

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

• Fine-Toothed Lice Comb: A nit comb is essential for removing lice and their eggs (nits) from your hair.
• Lice Treatment Products: Choose a lice treatment product that is safe and effective. My Hair Helpers has a full line of head lice products made without harsh chemicals. They are safe for all hair types, dreads included.
• Paper towels: To wipe the comb on between swipes
• Shampoo: Use a mild, residue-free shampoo for your dreadlocks.
• Towels: Have clean towels on hand.

Step 2: Unlock and Isolate Your Dreadlocks

In theory, you can saturate your dreads in oil, and sleep in it overnight and it will trap the bugs, however, since lice can burrow deep into a dreadlock, you may miss some that continue to lay eggs. Additionally, oil may trap the eggs, but without removing them, you are at risk of them still hatching.

Therefore, it’s best to unlock the dreads and separate the hair into sections to make the treatment process more manageable. The other option is to cut off the dreads and complete the treatment. However, we know that's usually everyone's last choice.

Step 3: Apply Lice Treatment

Next, mix our Mint Conditioner (3 squeezes) and water inside a spray bottle and apply to the entire scalp, as well as the ends, to detangle the hair. Afterward, apply our foam mousse layer by layer to loosen the glue from the lice eggs.

Step 4: Comb Out Lice and Nits

Section the hair from ear to ear. Clip up the strands in sections. Next, use our Eliminator Lice Comb and comb each section of the hair in all 4 directions; up, down, left, and right.

With each combing movement, you will want to wipe the comb on a white paper towel to see the status of the removal. This process will drag out the nits and lice.
Remember that the comb must touch the scalp during the combing process.

Make sure to comb every section of the hair. You will comb until the paper towel swipes become completely clear of any nits or lice. Apply more products as hair dries out and then sleep in the oil overnight.

The following morning, wash out the thick dimethicone oil with My Hair Helpers' Mint Shampoo until all of the residue has been removed from the hair. Repeated washings may be required. Mint repels lice, so this will help with prevention.

Step 5: Repeat as Necessary

Lice treatments often require a second application to ensure that all lice and nits are eradicated due to their hatching cycle. We recommend repeating our lice treatment after 5-6 days. Repeat the same steps above.

Step 6: Re-lock Dreadlocks

Once you have completed both treatments and combing through hair reveals that all lice and nits are gone, you can re-lock your dreads. 

Step 7: Prevent Re-infestation

To prevent re-infestation, the best thing you can do is avoid head-to-head contact with other individuals, particularly those who may have lice. It’s also best to refrain from sharing hats, hair ties, and other hair accessories. Before you leave the home, spray your dreads with a bit of mint lice spray to deter lice.

Step 8: Regular Lice Checks

Perform regular head checks to catch any potential re-infestations early. If you notice any signs of lice, repeat the treatment process promptly. Checking your dreads once a week is one of the best ways to protect yourself from lice infestations. But keep in mind that lice can burrow deep within the dreads, so you may not notice them as quickly as with other hair types.

Keep Your Dreadlocks Lice Free! 

Removing lice from dreadlocks may require more time and patience than with other hair types, but it is entirely possible with the right approach. By following these steps, you can successfully eliminate lice from your dreadlocks and enjoy a lice-free, healthy scalp once again.

If you have any questions about removing head lice from dreadlocks, be sure to contact the experts from My Hair Helpers.