Pediculosis is another term for head lice and body lice. It is very contagious and easily passed between people through personal contact. Once you or someone in your home catches a form of pediculosis it can be very difficult to get rid of. Though there are several methods of treating head lice, not all of them are considered safe and effective.



For years the most common method of treating a pediculosis infestation was with a chemical shampoo or conditioner that contains neurotoxins to kill the lice. Over the past few years it has become apparent that this treatment method is no longer as effective as it once was, resulting in numerous repeated treatments to resolve the problem.

As a result, for some time now there has been a search on to find a safer and more effective treatment. People have tried everything from mayonnaise in the hair overnight to olive oil and tea tree oil. Most people agree that these types of treatments can work if they are done properly.

Even with natural treatments for pediculosis, it is necessary to clean and vacuum the home thoroughly, as well as bag all items that cannot be washed in a plastic bag for at least two weeks. Putting all bedding, clothes and hats through the laundry is also recommended.

Another choice for treatment is the use of a hair dryer on the hair. In studies this has proven to be very effective in not only killing live adult lice, but the nits too. The heat appears to quickly eliminate the little insects.

Use the hair dryer as you are combing through the hair, ensure that you get all areas of the hair and scalp. For best results you may choose to use the hair dryer method in conjunction with another home remedy treatment, such as olive oil or mayonnaise.

To help your family avoid a run in with head lice it is important to teach your children that they should never share their personal items with other children. This can be difficult, as young children like to share, especially girls. Girls tend to share brushes and other hair accessories, unfortunately this is one of the main methods that pediculosis is transmitted from one child to another.

Once your child gets head lice they will bring it home and likely everyone in the family, not to mention extended family as well as friends will get head lice. This can be embarrassing, but also very difficult to eradicate.

Always inform the school as well as your friends and family that your child has been exposed to head lice, this will help to keep pediculosis from spreading, which will only result in your family getting it again. It is essential that you treat pediculosis safely and promptly.