The tiny parasites that live on our scalps and lead to a great deal of itchiness are called head lice. They derive nutrients from the blood they suck from the scalp. It is for this reason that head lice found far from the scalp do not survive for long. A female louse normally births one hundred eggs or an equivalent of six eggs each day. After eight days, a nymphal louse is hatched from its egg and reaches adult stage about two weeks after hatching. A person infested with lice will generally have a dozen of them adults living in his head at a single time, but there are basically hundreds of eggs around just waiting to hatch.

Hair lice can survive in all lengths and kinds of hair. But children, especially girls three to twelve years old, are the most likely to have hair lice. It is a misconception that head lice is linked only with dirty hair as these critters are quite happy living in clean hair too.

The Dangers Of Using Chemicals To Get Rid Of Lice

Some specialists could tell you to take a shot at those anti-louse shampoos and lotions and other medications available over the counter. But know that a number of these products contain dangerous compounds (like lindane, pyrethrum, permethrin) that may cause more harm than good if not use the right way. Consequences of using lindane, for example, include reproductive abnormalities, low sperm counts, behavioral and mental problems, and, perhaps even cancer. Meanwhile, pyrethrum and permethrin have shown proof of being probable contributors to dysfunctions in children's neurological functions. Thus, chemical treatments are not always the best; and some of them might even become immune to medications eventually.

Natural Remedy Against Head Lice

Head lice can be driven out using natural and conventional methods. One example is louse busting, which can take some time. Despite that, natural methods are still the best and safest way compared to chemical shampoos and lotions. Some of the best extracted oils to use against lice include almond, olive and sunflower. Combs like the Nitmix Ultra Fine toothed comb are also very effective.

Surviving Head Lice

The fact is, head lice can be handled with ease. They are scalp nuisances that can be weeded out through easy to do and safe ways. And because natural treatments are within arms reach, there really is no reason to subject your child to chemical products anymore.