New Delhi: While lice can spread, they don’t carry disease and are not an indication of poor hygiene. If your child has been exposed to lice during an overnight stay, there is no need to panic. Early detection allows for effective management. Combing the hair every morning and evening for three weeks is often sufficient.
Combining combing with home treatments can also help, as many rely on methods to suffocate the lice, which is generally preferable to using harsh chemicals.
Effective head lice treatment methods
Wet-Combing: Wet-combing is a traditional and effective way to remove lice from hair. This method involves spraying conditioner on wet hair, using a fine-toothed comb, and possibly a magnifying glass to examine and remove lice. While effective, wet-combing is time-consuming and requires patience. It’s advisable to allocate ample time and consider entertainment options for the child during this process.
Dimethicone: Dimethicone, commonly found in skincare products, is also highly effective against head lice when used as a 4% silicone gel. It works by dehydrating and suffocating the lice, making it difficult for them to survive. Since it is not an insecticide, lice are less likely to develop resistance to it.
Smothering the Lice: Natural smothering treatments can effectively slow down lice, making them easier to remove through combing. These methods involve coating the hair with substances like olive or almond oil (avoid Vaseline and mayonnaise due to their messiness and difficulty in washing out). Applying oil to the comb instead of directly to the hair might work better for some people.
Coat the hair with olive or almond oil. Separate the hair into small sections and use hair clips to keep them out of the way.
Comb out the lice under good lighting, rinsing the comb frequently in hot water. Wash the hair with regular shampoo and dry it.
After each session, clean all towels and the lice comb. Soak the comb in a 10% bleach solution or 2% Lysol solution for 30 minutes, or in vinegar for 30 minutes, or boil it for 10 minutes. Follow this procedure daily for a week, then comb every night for the next two weeks to ensure the lice are gone.
How to use lice treatment shampoo
Anti-lice shampoos, such as Nix, are effective and don’t require a prescription. Follow these steps.
Wash the hair with regular shampoo and towel dry.
Apply the anti-lice creme rinse to damp hair (avoid using conditioner).
Use 2 ounces (or 60 mL) of the product, more for long hair, and work it into the hair down to the roots.
Leave the shampoo on for 10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
Repeat the treatment after 9 days to ensure any newly hatched lice are killed.
Lice treatment at home: Natural remedies to get rid of lice
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has antimicrobial properties and is effective against lice. Apply a few drops to the scalp to help eliminate lice and their eggs.
Neem
Neem is used in various shampoos and oils for lice treatment. Apply neem juice, a thick paste of neem leaves, or neem oil to the scalp, leave for 10-15 minutes, and then wash it out.
Garlic
Garlic, used in Ayurveda for lice management, can be made into a paste with lemon juice. Apply this mixture to the hair roots, leave for one to two hours, and rinse thoroughly.
How to use a lice comb
Wet the hair to make lice and eggs more visible.
Comb or brush to remove tangles.
Section the hair into 1-inch parts using clips or pins.
Comb each section starting from the scalp to the ends, wiping off the comb between strokes.
Comb each section twice to ensure thorough removal.
Rinse the hair or apply a pediculicide shampoo to kill any remaining lice.
Soak the lice comb in hot water for 10 minutes.
Dispose of tissues used during combing in a sealed trash bag.
Following these methods can help effectively manage and eliminate head lice.
Hair lice treatment: Suffering from head lice? Discover effective lice treatment methods, including home remedies, medicated shampoos, and lice combs. Learn how to prevent re-infestation and keep your family lice-free. Beauty Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips
