Easy Way to Get Rid of Head Lice

Children are particularly succeptible to head lice.

Head lice live on human scalps, sucking blood and eventually causing uncomfortable allergic reactions. Several months after a lice infestation, hosts usually develop extremely itchy scalps. To relieve discomfort, some have resorted to drastic methods -- such as shaving the head completely bald -- in an effort to eliminate the pests. If this option doesn't appeal to you, you can eliminate lice easily with a pyrethroid (an over-the-counter insecticide) or lindane (a prescription insecticide).

Things You'll Need

• Natural or synthetic pyrethroid formulation or lindane
• Towel

Instructions

1. Remove all the clothes on your upper body.

2. Place a towel over your eyes to protect them.

3. Lay your neck over a sink, face up.

4. Apply the insecticide to your hair. Follow the directions on the insecticide to see how long to leave it in.

5. Wash and shampoo your hair.

Tips & Warnings

• Only use insecticides labeled for head lice control

• Do not apply insecticide to eyebrows or eyelashes, to an infant or pregnant woman.

• Treat all infected family members at the same time to prevent further infestations.

• Lindane can have serious side effects when not used exactly as directed. When left on the skin too long, used repeatedly or consumed, it can cause seizures and other nervous system side effects. Children are especially susceptible to these side effects.

References

• LSU Law Center: Head Lice: the truth and the myths -- notes for families
• Alabama Cooperative Extension System: Controlling Head Lice
• University of Michigan Health System: Lindane for Lice