What Should I Do If I Think I Have Head Lice?

The first step to treating lice is to remove all traces of lice from your head. Often, lice are able to hide in your hair, so you may not notice them unless you scratch them. The most common symptom is intense itching, which can be a sign of an infestation. You may also develop small sores on your head, which may become infected.

Head lice are spread by head-to-head contact, so it’s essential to wash all clothing and personal items thoroughly. You should also make sure that all household members are treated. The best way to do this is to wash and dry all clothing, bedding, and other items regularly. If you have a child, check their hair and personal items regularly with a plastic drop cloth.

Head lice treatments should be used immediately after lice are identified. You should follow the instructions provided by your health care provider or pharmacist. You should also avoid using a hairdryer or other heating devices to treat lice. Furthermore, do not use any pesticide sprays, which may be harmful. Moreover, you should never use essential oils for lice treatment, as they may cause an allergic reaction and do not have any approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Moreover, some of these products contain high-flammable chemicals that can cause fire.

If you are certain you have head lice, your doctor may recommend a medicated treatment. This may be either an OTC or a prescription medicine. In some cases, it may be necessary to repeat the treatment several times.