TIPS FOR CHOOSING THE BEST HEAD LICE REMOVAL PRODUCTS
Did you just discover that your child has head lice? Fortunately, there are a number of products that you can use to remove head lice from their head. But how do you know which products are the best, especially when you’re working against the clock?
This guide will teach you what to look for so that you can pick the safest and most effective lice treatment for kids. Once you apply the correct treatment to your child’s hair, most schools and daycare centers will allow them back the following day!
Chemical vs Chemical Free
Contrary to popular belief, you do NOT need chemicals to kill head lice. Permethrin and pyrethrin are two common ingredients found in many over-the-counter head lice removal products. However, we advise against using pyrethroid-based agents for two reasons.
First, head lice are growing increasingly resistant to these ingredients, so they are far less effective than they were years ago. Second, permethrin and pyrethrin are insecticides that affect the nervous systems of insects. They can also pose problems for humans like burning, stinging and itching.
Ages of Who You are Treating
Another factor to think about when treating your child for head lice is their age. Most chemical head lice products are not recommended for newborns or infants. In fact, some are not suitable for any children under the age of 2!
Dimethicone, on the other hand, is safe for all ages. While wet combing is often effective to remove head lice from a baby’s head, severe lice infestations can be treated with our lice shampoo. We’ve safely and effectively used our products on newborns with no problems!
Allergies or Skin Sensitivities
Pyrethroid-based lice treatments can be harsh on the skin, which is a concern for any small child, particularly one that already has sensitive skin or allergies. Permethrin products state that redness, swelling and itching can occur on the scalp. Other common side effects include burning, tingling, stinging and numbness. Knowing that some children react to these ingredients, wouldn’t you feel better choosing an alternative that won’t have these side effects? You’ll be happy to know that there are other lice treatments out there that feel good on the skin and leave the hair soft and shiny!
Second Application Necessary
Most head lice treatments require you to use two full treatments to effectively remove all lice. Here’s why. Nits are very tricky to remove because they firmly attach themselves to the base of the hair shaft. If they are missed in the first treatment, they can hatch and start an infestation again.
A second application ensures that any newly hatched lice are killed. Make sure that you read the product’s instructions. You can also wet comb your child’s hair to make sure that all signs of lice are gone.
