Do Head Lice Treatments Work?

If you suspect your child has head lice, the best treatment for it is prevention. Treating the problem early can prevent it from spreading from person to person, even in the same house. To prevent lice outbreaks, you should always treat your child before they go to school or spend time in public places. In addition to using a professional treatment, you can also use home remedies like tea tree oil, wet combing, or aromatherapy. While these methods may not completely kill lice, they can make them more difficult to breathe.

Lotions containing benzyl alcohol are FDA-approved for lice treatment. While these products are not ovicidal, they can kill nits and live lice. They should be applied to the hair in dry weather and should be washed out after eight to twelve hours. For best results, you should apply another treatment 7 to 9 days after the first one.

In addition to combing, you can also use a hot air machine to kill head lice through dehydration. However, this treatment method requires special training and is available only at professional lice treatment centers. A hot air machine works by using air that is much cooler than a regular hair dryer, and at a higher flow rate. You should never use a regular hair dryer for this treatment, as the hot air can burn the scalp and irritate it.

For the most effective lice treatment, always follow instructions carefully. First, you must rinse the hair thoroughly, and make sure the lice products are not spread too thick. Then, you should apply a second treatment if you notice any live lice in it. After each treatment, do not shampoo or use conditioner.

Continue reading:

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