Are Head Lice Good For Hair?
WouterHead lice are tiny, parasitic insects that live and reproduce on the hair of human beings. The eggs they lay are white to yellowish, and they resemble dandruff. They do not flake off when touched and remain firmly attached to the hair shaft. Adults can live from three to four weeks and lay six to ten eggs per day.
Live lice are hard to detect because they are hidden from light. But the eggs they lay are easy to recognize as tiny, oval-shaped specks attached to hair near the scalp. You can often find them behind the ears, as well as on the hairline. But remember that a presence of nits does not mean that live lice are present. The presence of nits may cause itching, which may lead to small red bumps that can become infected with bacteria.
If you decide to treat your child with a topical pediculicide, make sure you thoroughly rinse the affected area with water after using the product. The application process should last no longer than 10 minutes. To minimize the risk of side effects, choose a lice treatment that is FDA-approved.
The first step to cure head lice is to eliminate the environment where the lice have made their home. You should clean all bedding, clothing, and other items used in the previous 48 hours. You can also clean your car seats, furniture, and carpet with a vacuum cleaner. If you cannot wash the items, you should store them in a plastic bag for up to two weeks. During this time, you should not spray any insecticides on the household or furniture.
