Killing the Myths Surrounding Lice and Head Louse Treatment

The many myths and ideas about lice and head louse treatment is probably a sign of how widespread lice problems are. These same myths however also effectively hamper proper and effective head louse treatment.

Myth #1: Untidy and unkempt kids are the ones most prone to head lice.

Head lice is such a widespread and common problem that it is usually found in kids aged 3-12 from all classes and levels in society. Even the cleanest kids may get lice and may need head louse treatment. In fact, lice love clean, healthy scalps and hair because they can feed well.

Myth #2: You can use chemical head louse treatment to prevent lice infestations.

Experts caution that you should first be absolutely sure that your child has lice before using chemically based head louse treatment. Using chemical products too much, misusing them or using them other than for their intended use could irritate your child’s scalp and over expose him to strong chemicals. Head louse treatment should also only be used as indicated.

Myth #3: Lice hop and fly around from head to head.

Your child cannot get head lice just by staying in the same room with another kid who has them. This is because lice can’t fly or jump. Lice are spread when kids’ heads and hair come into close contact during group activities.

Myth #4: There’s no need to clean up after a successful head louse treatment.

It is true that lice eventually die when they lose contact with their human host. They may however survive for a few hours to a few days without feeding. This means that they can roam around bed sheets, pillows, combs and other things waiting to have contact with human hair. Even if you have had a successful head louse treatment, your child could get lice again if survivor lice find their way back to the scalp. In fact, sharing personal items with other kids is one way to also spread lice. Make sure you wash and dry your kid’s things to completely kill lice.

Myth #5: You can use chemical head louse treatment on anyone.

Most over the counter treatments are intended for children. Not all of them may therefore be safe and effective for children below three years old. Of course, pregnant and lactating mothers should never use or be exposed to chemicals without the doctor’s consent.

Myth #6: Chemical treatment is all you need.

When used as specified and indicated, some chemical treatments can effectively kill adult lice. It is wrong to think though that this is all you will ever need. You may have to manually pick and crush nits because they can stay stuck on hair shafts even after chemical treatment. It would also be best to periodically check hair for the presence of stray lice and nits. Use a fine comb to help you with your nit and lice search.

Myth #7: Lice signal their presence through itchiness.

Kids with lice naturally have itchy scalps but not all kids experience persistent itching that would lead parents to think of lice. The best way to make sure that your kid has lice is to really check the scalp and hair regularly. Do not think that your kid is exempt from getting lice.