How to Prevent Getting Head Lice

Preventing head lice infestation is easier than removing them.

Head lice are tiny parasitic insects that live on the scalp and in the hair of humans, feeding on blood from the scalp. They are a very common problem among school-age children and often the cause of children being sent home from school. They can be very easily passed from one child to another. They are very difficult to get rid of so focusing on prevention is essential.

Things You'll Need

• Tea tree oil
• Shampoo

Instructions

1. Avoid direct head-to-head contact with a person who has head lice. Keep hats and combs in an isolated area and do not share with others.

2. Tightly braid long hair to reduce the risk of it coming in contact with someone else's hair.

3. Read your shampoo label for the amount of ounces inside. Mix three to five drops of tea tree oil for every ounce of shampoo. Shampoo your hair as usual. Tea tree oil is a natural insecticide and works to repel the lice.

Tips & Warnings

• Eucalyptus oil can also be used instead of tea tree oil but it is not recommended for use on children under the age of five. Other oils that can be effective include lavender, rosemary and peppermint.

• Because lice infestations are not common in adults, remind children to not share hats, combs or other hair products with others.

• Girls are more susceptible to spreading head lice. While long hair can make it easier, girls are also more likely to come in contact with others on a head-to-head basis. Girls like to whisper to each other and share secrets, so getting close is more common and allows the lice to spread easier.

References

• Head Lice Center: Head Lice Prevention Through Essential Oils
• Head Lice Center: Preventing Head Lice: How to Avoid Contamination