Hi deb. The tincture i got was to be used directly on the head. Make partings in the hair and place a few drops in. It takes about a week for them all to be killed.
If that takes too long the stuff i found really great is called Mr Nits. It is all natural essential oils (which can antidote any remedies you are taking so be aware of that). It kills the lice and loosens the eggs making them easier to remove with a nit comb. there is a web site for it.
www.botanica.co.nz