Anyone who has ever faced the challenge of head lice knows just how much time and effort it takes to eliminate them. It’s no surprise, then, that every parent dreads the thought of their kids catching lice at school.
Unfortunately, head lice are a widespread issue, and they can be harder to avoid than you might expect. This is particularly true when school resumes after the holidays, as children have been socializing during the summer.
It often begins with one or two kids scratching their heads, and before long, the entire family has to be cautious about getting lice.
Then comes the lice removal treatment, which is hardly anyone’s idea of fun. It can be uncomfortable, takes up your time, and there’s no assurance that once the lice are gone, they won’t return.
The spread of lice
Typically, it’s children who facilitate the rapid spread of lice. As noted in the Care Guidebook, kids are most vulnerable during the summer months. When school starts again, the conditions become perfect for lice to flourish.
It’s crucial to keep in mind that lice cannot jump or fly; they spread by crawling from one hair to another.
A widespread myth is that lice can be transmitted through hats and brushes. However, Care Guide indicates that the risk of this occurring is quite low, as lice that have fallen from hair are significantly weakened.
How to identify lice
While lice can cause itching and discomfort, they are not life-threatening. Nevertheless, they can escalate into a significant issue rather quickly. Care Guide notes that symptoms, such as an itchy scalp, typically manifest 4-6 weeks after infection.
o identify lice, simply inspect the scalp. Lice measure between one to three millimeters in length, are elongated and translucent, and can range in color from gray to brown, black, and red. The most effective way to confirm the presence of lice is by using a lice comb to carefully comb through the hair from back to front. Lice should fall into the sink.
Identifying lice eggs
In fact, it may be easier to find lice eggs than the lice themselves. Eggs are located close to the scalp and can appear dark if they contain live lice or lighter if they are hatched. The eggs are also about a millimeter long.
According to Care Guide, remember not to start treatment if you only find empty eggs; treatment should only begin if live lice are detected in your hair. The eggs will eventually disappear as your hair grows, or you can comb them out as an alternative.
So, how can you treat lice? Below, I’ve outlined a method that is inexpensive, chemical-free, and ensures that children won’t have to endure discomfort for long.
Treatment for lice
Certainly, lice shampoo can assist, but it doesn’t ensure complete elimination of lice. Often, the entire family needs to be treated twice, which can be costly and time-consuming – every egg must be meticulously combed out of the hair.
However, I’ve discovered an alternative approach from Healthy Life Center. It’s effective and eliminates the need to expose 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:
- Start by using the mouthwash, as lice are repelled by its strong scent. Wet the hair with it, then cover it with a shower cap or plastic bag. Allow it to sit for an hour.
- After an hour, rinse your hair and soak it in white vinegar instead. The vinegar helps eliminate the eggs. Once the hair is covered, let it sit for another hour.
- Wash your hair with regular shampoo and comb it using a lice comb.
- To reduce the likelihood of your child catching lice at school, lightly spray their hair with mouthwash. This can discourage lice from choosing your child’s head as their home.
Do you want to keep lice away?
Share this article so your family and friends can benefit from this helpful tip. We’ll keep our fingers crossed that it works for you, too!
