Head lice is a common problem that affects millions of people every year. Young children, their families, and their caregivers are especially at risk. According to recent statistics, lice passes from a child to a sibling 80 percent of the time. And mothers of children with head lice become infested just as often.
These creatures are small, wingless insects that live on the scalp and feed on blood. Their presence is most indicated by intense scalp itching. The itching is caused by an allergic reaction to the lice saliva. Red bumps on the scalp, neck, and shoulders are additional signs of head lice.
While they are tiny creatures, adult lice are sometimes visible to the naked eye. They are easiest to find on the neck and behind the ears. Their eggs, called nits, can look like dandruff. However, they are not easily brushed from the hair.
Contrary to common belief, they do not signify poor personal hygiene or a dirty environment. The condition crosses all socio-economic boundaries. In fact, this problem is one of the top reasons children miss school. Lice thrive in both warm and cold climates, and children with long hair are more prone to become infested.
While parents can attempt to eliminate lice at home, with prescription or nonprescription shampoos, professional hair lice treatment is easier and usually more effective. Many head lice shampoos are toxic to children, and some lice strains are immune to the chemicals in over-the-counter products.
Clinical hair salons typically use all-natural products to aid in the manual removal of head lice. Their non-toxic shampoos and hair rinses are safe, effective, and kid-friendly.
During professional hair lice treatment, a trained technician manually inspects the hair for nits and adult lice. Most salons recommend a family evaluation, since lice usually infests several family members.
If lice and eggs are found, the salon technician will begin work to manually remove the parasitic insects. Special training, along with patented creams and nit combs, ensure the safe removal of lice from the hair.
A shampoo and rinse are the final steps in hair lice treatment. All-natural, non-toxic products work together to kill the adult lice and loosen the eggs from the hair.
Many major cities have head lice removal salons. Some technicians even make house calls. Most health insurance policies cover at least partial reimbursements for professional hair lice treatment. Parents who suspect their child has head lice should act quickly, before the parasites can infest other family members and spread.
