Which Head Lice Treatment is Right For Your Child?

Head lice are a common problem, especially in children. But adults can get infested as well. The most common symptom is etching on the head, though victims may also see lice in the armpits or pubic hair. Many people who suffer from head lice find relief in a variety of treatments, including over-the-counter products and home remedies. Others seek out a family physician for help.

One common head lice treatment is malathion, which kills lice. Malathion is available over-the-counter and on prescription. However, it is not recommended for children under two years of age or pregnant women. While this product works well in treating lice, it should be used only as directed. Do not mix it with other products or use more than the recommended amount. If you still see crawling lice after two weeks, you should seek medical help.

Another popular treatment involves wet combing, which kills lice. However, you must make sure that you do this weekly. The use of essential oils can suffocate the lice. Moreover, it may also cause allergic reactions. Therefore, you should consult a pharmacist for proper guidance on which head lice treatment is right for your child.

If you suspect lice, you should inspect your child’s hair thoroughly. You may find lice and nits in the scalp and hair. If you find any, apply white hair conditioner and comb it through carefully. If you find any nits, you should use a fine-toothed comb and look for them with a magnifying lens. You should also check the hair comb carefully, section by section, starting from behind the ears and working your way to the ends. During this procedure, you should make sure that you wipe your comb thoroughly with tissue.