Head lice infestations are common in children, as well as their family members and caretakers, in the United States. While those with long hair may be more susceptible to getting head lice, the remedies for getting rid of lice in long and short hair is the same.
Who Gets Head Lice?
Children in preschool and elementary school (aged three to 11 years) are most frequently infested with head lice, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Girls are more prone to getting head lice than boys, simply because they are more likely to engage in head-to-head contact at slumber parties or by sharing personal items, like scarves and hats. This allows the lice to crawl from one child to another.
Head lice don't give preference to long hair over short hair. However, girls and women with long hair may find it easier to get lice simply because loose hair comes into contact with other hair more easily. Long hair is also more difficult to inspect than short hair. Combing out lice nits in longer hair can be more time-consuming.
Fast Remedies
Over-the-counter shampoos with pesticides are the first-line treatment for killing head lice. Look for a product that contains pyrethrin or permethrin, such as Rid or Nix, or ask your pharmacist about available treatments. These shampoos work on hair of all lengths if the directions are followed exactly (longer hair may require more use of the product or purchase of a second bottle for follow-up treatment). Re-treatment is necessary within seven to 10 days to address remaining lice.
These products kill the live lice, but the louse's eggs, which are deposited about a half-inch from the scalp, must be combed out carefully using a nit comb. Make sure to use enough of the product to ensure effectiveness. If you've used over-the-counter pediculicide and lice still remain, consult a doctor for a stronger, prescription brand of topical treatment, as some lice are resistant to over-the-counter treatment. Also, make sure that lice aren't simply the result of reinfestation due to being exposed to an environment or person with untreated lice.
Make sure you know what is unlikely to work. Old wives' remedies that use vinegar, olive oil, mayonnaise, petroleum jelly, and other household goods to "smother" lice are usually ineffective. Lice can't be smothered with these DIY emollients, even if they're left on the hair overnight. Nor can lice be killed with repeated shampooings. In fact, lice can survive underwater for more than 14 hours. Applying a flammable substance, such as kerosene or gasoline, is extremely dangerous.
The Final Step
Of utmost importance to prevent reinfestation is treatment of all family members and the household environment. Hats, scarves, bedding, clothing and towels should be laundered in a washing machine on the hot water cycle and dried on hot. Head lice cannot survive for more than five minutes at temperatures greater than 128.3°F. If there are items that cannot be washed, simply seal them in a plastic bag for a couple of weeks. Lice past this time without a human host.
Grooming aids, such as combs and brushes, should be disinfected in hot water. Give carpets, rugs and furniture a thorough vacuuming and make sure to remove the bag and dispose of it outside of the home right away.
Tags: , long hair, short hair, cannot survive,