Can You Kill Head Lice With Heat?
WouterResearchers have found that using heat to kill head lice and their eggs can eliminate infestations. The treatment is safe and effective. Moreover, head lice are unlikely to develop resistance to it. In a study, six methods of delivering hot air to the head were tested. Each method killed approximately 20 percent of lice and eggs.
These natural methods are not approved by the FDA, so you should consult with a medical professional. However, they do have several advantages. First of all, they are nonpesticides and can be applied to the head without harming the hair. Moreover, you should avoid using them on infants, young children and pregnant women.
The CDC recommends that you should isolate your child from people who have head lice, especially when their hair is long. In addition, long hair should be tied in a tight braid or ponytail. Second, you should keep your child’s bedding in a dry place for three days. You should also wash your bed linens in hot water on a hot cycle. Remember to wash nits and live lice separately.
Third, if you are unable to kill head lice with heat, you should consult a professional. Using topical pediculicides will kill the lice, but they need to be reapplied every week to keep the infestation away. You should avoid using essential oils or smothering agents, as they can cause an allergic reaction. Finally, it is important to wash your hair and comb regularly.
