As kids are starting back to schools across the country, school nurses may be facing a new problem when it comes to dealing with head lice. There's a good chance that widely available treatments that have been effective for years will no longer get rid of the creepy crawling insects.
A recent study shows that at least 25 states host lice populations that are unresponsive to the commonly used over the counter lice treatments. The dreaded insects have developed genetic mutations due to continued exposure to permethrin.
Are you in one of the red states where the mutant lice reside??
The good news is that prescription medications that don't contain permethrin remain effective against lice. These contain powerful agents such as benzyl alcohol, ivermectin, malathion and spinosad. Lindane shampoo is another alternative for difficult-to-treat cases.
According to Jake Deutsch, MD, founder and clinical director of New York's CURE Urgent Care, there are a number of home remedies that are inexpensive, non-toxic, and effective. Those include using essential oils like tea tree, clove oil, and nutmeg oil, as well as vinegar. But if you prefer sticking with a more traditional treatment, Deutsch recommends Sklice, Ovide, and Natroba.
I bet you are just itching to try out these new treatments!
This product is chemical free and is getting great reviews. The little buggers can't hide from a desicant. BUT as others have said, the process often falls short because the person doing the treatment doesn't take the time to pick/comb through the hair.
If your parents freak about chemicals and cost, tell them about Lice Freee. (Not a paid endorsement. Your mileage may vary.)
Some people are cashing in on all this. In the past year, two lice removal companies have started in the area.
This product is chemical free and is getting great reviews. The little buggers can't hide from a desicant. BUT as others have said, the process often falls short because the person doing the treatment doesn't take the time to pick/comb through the hair.
If your parents freak about chemicals and cost, tell them about Lice Freee. (Not a paid endorsement. Your mileage may vary.)
Some people are cashing in on all this. In the past year, two lice removal companies have started in the area.
I found a research study that showed that this product did, indeed, work when used as directed.
Farawyn
12,646 Posts
Skedaddle! Shoo!