The Lowdown on Head Lice: How to Keep Them Away and Get Rid of Them
The best and safest way to prevent lice from spreading is by combing wet hair with a fine-toothed comb suited to the hair type and length.
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They are tiny, wingless parasitic insects that reproduce quickly by laying eggs. These are the lice that make their home on human heads. They have a pair of claws that allow them to grasp hair strands. A louse lives by feeding on human blood several times a day.
It takes about seven to nine days from the time the egg hatches until the louse grows enough to lay new eggs. Sometimes, it transfers to another head, ready to lay eggs. Lice spread through physical contact between children and even adults, or by sharing hairbrushes or combs. A louse cannot fly — it moves from head to head by crawling.
The best and safest way to prevent lice from spreading is by combing wet hair with a fine-toothed comb suited to the hair type and length. Another effective method is using a hairdryer — the heat kills the lice and especially prevents the lice eggs from hatching. The heat kills them, providing a great treatment without chemicals. Just ensure the heat reaches the entire head and, of course, repeat the treatment to eliminate the problem.
Diluted apple cider vinegar helps remove the glue that attaches eggs to hair. Apply it to the hair, leave it for at least an hour, and then comb out.
To repel lice, mix 3-4 drops of tea tree oil with two tablespoons of olive oil, or more depending on hair length, apply to the head, and wait half an hour. Essential oils are volatile and can harm the eyes, so it's a good idea to wrap your head with a scarf after application. After half an hour, comb and shampoo.
Rosemary is known for its lice-repelling properties. You can use its oil as a preventive measure — a drop of rosemary essential oil behind the ears. You can also add two drops of rosemary oil to your shampoo, but be careful with your eyes.
Coconut oil is very effective. Apply to the hair, comb out after half an hour, and then shampoo. The oil will also help strengthen and nourish the hair roots.
Remember to wash bedding, kippahs, and hats, and to follow up and repeat treatment as necessary.
