10 Ways to Help Avoid a Head Lice Infestation
Head lice are a rampant problem across the U.S. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that 6 to 12 million people each year get head lice here in the U.S. Head lice lost commonly effects children from 4-11 years old.
Is there a way to guard your children from head lice? Because kids have very little need for personal space, it’s a challenge to protect them. However, it never hurts to try! Some helpful tips for lice prevention include:
Never share hair brushes
Never share sports helmets or other hats
Never share pillows or towels
Long hair should always be kept up and braided
Apply hair gel or leave-in conditioner to coat and “dirty” hair
Don’t wash your child’s hair everyday (lice prefer clean hair)
Check your child’s head for nits (eggs) once a week
Blow dry your child’s hair after washing (Dry heat kills lice and nits)
Use shampoo and conditioner that contains tea tree oil (repels lice)
Children should be reminded not to touch heads with any other child
If you detect head lice, be sure to tell the school nurse, so she can check your child’s classroom and pin point others who have lice. To kill lice, purchase a natural treatment for lice. Learn How to get rid of lice from others who have been through the experience. Treatment for lice can be tricky, so asking for help and researching safe products is highly recommended.