Back to School - Head Lice and Nits

The kids are back at school now which could mean they bring home some unwanted visitors! It seems strange that such tiny creatures as nits can cause such panic in parents. However, there are many simple solutions…

It is essential you do something – the problem won’t go away by itself, and don’t worry it’s not an indication that you’re not hygienic.

CHEMICAL PRODUCTS – the most common chemicals used are permethrin and phenothrin which attach the louse’s nervous system. But recent reports found that over 80% of lice may have built up resistence. Try Full Marks Solution or Lyclear Crème Rinse, both take ten mins to work. Not suitable for very young children or those with asthma.

ELECTRIC COMBS – These zap only the lice they come into contact with not the eggs, so they need to be used daily for two weeks. Best on short hair as can take ages on long tresses. Try Boots Electronic Head Lice Comb

SUFFOCATING LOTIONS – a silicon-based runny liquid that instantly shrink wraps lice in a special film, blocking their breathing tubes. It’s non-toxic and no combing is needed, but needs to be left on for eight hours then shampooed off. Try Hedrin from chemists.

WET COMBING - This needs patience. Wash hair, apply plenty of conditioner and comb downwards roots to tips. Clean nit comb as you go. Repeat every three days for two weeks.

FOREVER ALOE VERA GELLY – Is a 100% natural product which suffocates the lice. Wash, condition and comb hair with a fine tooth nit comb. Dry hair and smother Aloe Gelly all over hair and scalp, massage in and leave overnight. In the morning, shampoo and condition again and comb out again. Forever Aloe Vera Gelly is available by calling 08444 530290 or 07946 180065.

This article was created on Friday, 19th September 2008. It was last tinkered with on Monday, 29th September 2008.

This is the 33rd issue of Flea Magazine in Watford. The on-line version of the articles includes additional content that we couldn't fit into the printed version. You can see the individual articles and additional material by selecting from the titles below.

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