Permanent Removal of Lice and Nits

From LoveToKnow Hair

As anyone who has dealt with this pesky issue knows, the permanent removal of lice and nits is the crucial factor in remedying the problem. Though drugstore shelves are lined with products formulated to get rid of them, the truth it that they don't always offer a high success rate. In fact, some of them simply don't do the trick at all. Read on to learn about various treatments and how they'll help you on your way to lice-free life.

Don't let the dreaded louse take control!

About Lice and Nits

A parent who's had a child sent home early from school because of this problem knows the definition of both words all too well. But for those who aren't familiar or who suspect they may have a lice and nit problem on their hands (or rather, in their hair), we offer a quick rundown of what exactly these troublesome visitors actually are.

Lice live in the hair and scalp of human beings. These parasitic insects develop in three different forms, known as nits, nymphs and adults. Nits are eggs that are usually found firmly rooted to the hair shaft. They can be difficult to see, but when sighted they're often mistaken for dandruff or bits of dry hairspray. These oval-shaped eggs are typically white or yellowish-white. Nits will take one week to hatch.

When they do hatch, they are then known as nymphs. Nymphs are immature, adult head lice that feed on blood to survive. Within seven days, they have matured to the adult louse stage. Adults are grayish-white, have six legs and are typically the size of a sesame seed. They, too, need blood to survive and may live for up to 30 days on a scalp. They cause itchiness and overall discomfort.

Who Gets Lice?

Though lice are common amongst children, anyone can actually be afflicted with them. Girls are infected more often than boys, and women moreso than men. If children are infected, their families are at risk, too.

Permanent Removal of Lice and Nits

There are plenty of lice- and nit-removal methods available today. One glance at the crowded drugstore shelf is more than proof of that. But do all of the products actually work? Some people report varying degrees of success. Let's take a look at these remedies and determine which ones stand to give you the most value for your money and relieve you and your family of this irksome problem.

Over-the-Counter Treatments

Nix those nits! Nix Head Lice Treatments are formulated to eradicate the problem quickly and efficiently. The product's active ingredient, permethrin, is toxic to the nerves of head lice and causes their paralysis and eventual death. The Complete Lice Removal Kit contains everything needed to attack a lice infestation head on. It's recognized for its ability to kill lice and nits and prevent re-infestation.

Despite their popularity, many individuals have expressed concern over the dangers of using potentially toxic ingredients found in these over-the-counter products. That's what makes Licefreee! so appealing. (If you're going to be lice-free, you'll probably want to shout it out, so the name does make sense!) Licefreee! is also touted as being pleasant-smelling, creamy and easy to use. The non-toxic formula is free of permethrin, pyrethrum and lindane, all controversial ingredients that are typically found in lice treatments found at the drugstore.

Natural Treatments

Millions of individuals now value the importance of living a greener, healthier lifestyle. This is about more than just healthy foods; it's also about avoiding potentially harmful chemicals and attempting to cure afflictions with natural remedies. Several exist for the permanent removal of lice and nits, including:

Vaseline: Yes, plain old Vaseline has been recognized for its ability to suffocate those irritating lice. Rub it into the scalp and on the hair thoroughly. Of course, the substance is thick, so expect to wash your hair several times in order to completely remove it. You may add some flour (such as corn or plain) into the hair prior to washing.
Olive Oil and Vinegar: This match-up is a deadly duo where lice are concerned. Mix equal amounts of the two and apply to the scalp. Cover with a shower cap for one hour and then shampoo.
Mayonnaise: Known to work much like Vaseline does, mayonnaise does the trick by smothering the lice. Follow the same directions for Vaseline to achieve results. Bear in mind, though, that many kids may not be able to tolerate the smell. It will take some work to wash out, too.
Listerine and White Vinegar: Completely coat the hair and scalp with Listerine. Cover with a shower cap for two hours, then rinse. Use a lice comb to remove any lice. Follow up by coating the hair and scalp with white vinegar. Cover with a shower cap for one hour, then rinse. Again, use the lice comb to remove any remaining nits and lice.

As with any remedy, your mileage may vary when it comes to seeing results. Be patient and diligent! It's important to keep an eye on the scalp and check for any new occurrences during the days after the initial treatment.

Avoid Recurrences

The top concern is avoiding recurrence of the problem. Vacuum frequently, wash all bedding and any clothing worn recently in hot water and soak all combs, brushes and lice combs in hot water.

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