Head lice: How to get rid of them and stop them coming back
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Anyone who has ever encountered head lice is acutely aware of the significant amount of time and effort required to eliminate them. It is no surprise, therefore, that it is every parent’s worst fear for their children to contract lice at school.
Unfortunately, head lice represent a widespread issue, and they are more challenging to avoid than one might assume. This is particularly true when school resumes after the holidays, as children have been interacting with one another throughout the summer.
The situation often begins with one or two children experiencing scalp itching, which then escalates rapidly. Before long, the entire family must be cautious about the possibility of contracting lice.
Following this, the lice removal cream comes into play, which is hardly anyone’s preferred solution. The process can be uncomfortable, consumes valuable time, and there is no assurance that once the lice are eradicated, they will not return.
The transmission of lice
Typically, it is children who facilitate the rapid spread of lice. As noted in the Care Guidebook, children are at the highest risk during the summer months. When school resumes, the conditions become ideal for lice to flourish.
It is crucial to keep in mind that lice cannot jump or fly; they spread by crawling across hair strands.
A prevalent misunderstanding is that lice can be transmitted via brushes and hats. However, Care Guide indicates that the likelihood of this occurring is minimal, as lice that have detached from hair are significantly weakened.
How to identify lice
While lice can cause itching and discomfort, they are not fatal. Nevertheless, they can escalate into a significant issue quite rapidly. According to Care Guide, symptoms, including an itchy scalp, typically manifest 4-6 weeks after infection.
To identify lice, simply inspect the scalp. Lice measure between one to three millimeters in length, are elongated and translucent, and generally exhibit colors ranging from gray, brown, black, to red. The most effective way to confirm the presence of lice is to utilize a lice comb, carefully combing the hair from back to front. Lice should fall into the sink.
Identifying lice eggs
In fact, detecting lice eggs can be simpler than spotting the lice themselves. Eggs are located close to the scalp and may appear dark if they contain live lice or lighter in color if they have hatched. The eggs are also approximately one millimeter in length.
Care Guide advises that treatment should not commence upon finding empty eggs, but only if live lice are discovered in your hair. The eggs will naturally disappear as your hair grows, or you can choose to comb them out.
So, what is the method for treating lice? Below, I have outlined a cost-effective, chemical-free approach that ensures children do not have to endure discomfort for an extended period.
Treatment against lice
Certainly, lice shampoo can be beneficial; however, it does not ensure complete elimination of lice. Typically, it is necessary to treat the entire family and perform two applications, which can be both costly and time-intensive – thorough combing of the hair is essential to remove every egg.
I have discovered an alternative approach, sourced from Healthy Life Center. This method is effective and eliminates the necessity of exposing yourself or your children to harsh chemicals.
What you’ll need:
- A lice comb
- Mouthwash
- White vinegar
- Shower cap or plastic bag
- A towel
What to do:
- The initial step is to utilize mouthwash, as lice are repelled by its potent scent. Apply it to the hair, then cover it with a shower cap or a plastic bag. Allow it to remain for one hour.
- After the hour has elapsed, rinse your hair and instead soak it in white vinegar. The vinegar is effective in eliminating the eggs. Once the hair is coated, let it sit for another hour.
- Cleanse your hair using standard shampoo and then comb it with a lice comb.
- To reduce the likelihood of your child acquiring lice at school, lightly spray their hair with mouthwash. This can discourage lice from choosing your child’s head as their habitat.
Do you want lice to stay away?
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