Let’s be honest, discovering that your kids have lice is a pain in the butt. However, they are a common problem, especially in school-aged children. Here’s a quick guide on how to effectively deal with head lice.
Confirm the Presence of Lice
Symptoms include itching and the feeling of something moving in the hair. Use a fine-toothed lice comb to check for live lice and nits (lice eggs). Lice are small and quick, and the eggs are tiny and white, often found near the base of hair shafts.
Start Treatment
Once confirmed, start treatment immediately. There are various over-the-counter lice treatment shampoos and lotions available. These usually contain insecticides that kill lice. Follow the instructions carefully.
Comb Out the Nits
After applying the treatment, use a fine-toothed lice comb to remove lice and nits from the hair. This step is time-consuming but crucial. Comb through the hair section by section to ensure you remove all lice and eggs.
Wash Personal Items
Lice can survive for a short time on personal items. So make sure to wash bedding, clothing, and stuffed toys in hot water and dry them at a high temperature. Items that can’t be washed should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks.