How Effective Is Head Lice Treatment?

A good head lice treatment can eliminate the problem without the use of a pesticide. While pyrethrin-based products work to kill lice and nits, they aren’t safe for children younger than two years. Furthermore, they can cause allergic reactions. An alternative treatment is based on a silicone-based material that suffocates the lice. However, these solutions can be difficult to rinse out of the hair.

Before applying a head lice treatment, make sure the infested areas are clean. It is essential to wash clothing and bedding used within 48 hours of the infestation and dry them thoroughly. You should also vacuum and disinfect carpets and furniture. To limit the spread of the infestation, you should keep your child’s hair tied back or braided. Another good practice is to check family members for head lice. You may need to treat your whole family in order to prevent reinfestation.

One of the most effective head lice treatments is a topical solution, which is available over the counter. This treatment works by killing live lice but does not kill the eggs. However, it may kill newly-hatched lice for days after application. It is best to apply the treatment twice, if necessary.

Besides the medication, you should also use a lice comb to remove the lice. This tool has closer teeth than a regular comb and makes it easier to remove the lice. Retreatment is recommended at least seven to nine days after the first treatment. During the retreatment, you need to make sure the lice do not return. To prevent reinfestation, it is important to avoid exposing yourself to the lice in the first place.