If your child just came home from school with head lice, don't panic. According to Dr. Alan Greene, there are over 12 million cases of head lice in the United States every year. Lice are itchy and annoying, but they don't cause serious or long-term harm. You have several options for battling head lice, including insecticides, physical removal, housekeeping and herbal treatments. Your doctor may also have specific recommendations for killing head lice.
Medication
There are both over-the-counter and prescription lotions and shampoos available for treating head lice. These, generally, use a chemical insecticide to kill the lice; although, some contain plant-based pyrethrins, instead. Conventional lice medication may irritate the skin, and some products aren't recommended for young children or for people with certain medical conditions. Also, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that lice may be resistant to these powerful chemicals. Always follow the package instructions to the letter when using lice medication.
Tea Tree Oil
A natural alternative for treating head lice is tea tree oil, which comes from an Australian plant known as Melaleuca alternifolia. The Mayo Clinic notes that some studies indicate that tea tree oil shampoo, when used in conjunction with other treatment methods, can be effective in killing head lice. Tea tree oil shampoo is available at many natural food stores and holistic pharmacies. You can also make your own by adding 1 to 2 tbsp. of tea tree oil to a 12-oz. bottle of your favorite shampoo. Avoid getting tea tree oil shampoo in your eyes.
Nit Combs
Regardless of what other treatments options you pursue, the CDC recommends using a nit comb to physically remove lice and nits (immature lice) from your child's hair. Carefully comb through your child's hair once or twice a day. Afterward, soak the comb in pure rubbing alcohol for at least an hour to clean it. You can find nit combs at any drugstore.
Housekeeping
At the first sign of head lice, wash all clothing, bedding, towels and pet beds in hot water, and dry them in a hot dryer to kill the lice. If you have items that can't be put in the washing machine or dryer, place them in a tightly sealed plastic bag for at least three days, after which point, the lice will die. Then, wash the item according to the cleaning instructions. Vacuum or steam clean all carpeting and rugs, and clean the upholstery in your car, too.
