Head lice are tiny, wingless insects, about the size of a sesame seed, that can cause extreme itching. It is estimated that there are 25 million cases of head lice each year in the United States. Treating head lice is most successful using a three-step approach: Killing the head lice, removing all nits (eggs), and cleaning bedding areas. Lice can be killed by using either commercial preparations or home remedies.
Commercial Preparations
Over-the-counter preparations usually contain either permethrin or pyrethrin, insecticides that kill lice but are safe for humans. These pesticides can be very effective. Treatment involves washing the hair with the pesticide-based shampoo, removing the nits, and shampooing again at a later time to complete treatment. The most popular of these commercial preparations are Nix, Rid, and Pronto. When these formulas were first developed, they were extremely effective; but over time, it appears head lice may be becoming resistant to pesticides.
Home Remedies
Home remedies can be just as effective as commercial preparations. Since lice do not like oil, most home treatments center around use of an oil or oil-based product. Both olive oil and mayonnaise have proven to be effective. Additionally, olive oil and mayonnaise both serve to help loosen the nits from the hair, making them easier to remove. An advantage of home treatments is that they can be used as often as needed without worrying about toxic exposure to pesticides.
Nits
Nits are attached to the hair shaft, usually close to the scalp. After killing and removing the lice, use a fine-tooth comb to remove the nits. Special combs are made for this purpose. Nits will begin to hatch within 14 days of treatment, so it is important to diligently remove them.
Prevent Reinfestation
Bedding should be washed in hot water and dried in a clothes dryer, as heat kills lice. Items that cannot be washed can be sealed in plastic bags for two weeks, as lack of a food supply will also kill lice. After two weeks, the bags should be opened outdoors.
Warning
If using a commercial preparation, always follow package directions and never retreat more often than the product advises. Do not use commercial preparations on children younger than 2. Never use Kwell, a commercial preparation containing lindane -- it can cause serious side effects, including death.
Tags: commercial preparations, commercial preparation, head lice, head lice, home treatments