As children head back to school, head lice often make a comeback. Here's how to protect your family and manage infestations effectively.
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Cristina: 'Every school year starts the same way—head lice. Kids reunite after summer break, playing closely and touching heads, allowing lice to spread easily from one to another.'
Suspect head lice in your child? Lice thrive in warm, moist areas like behind the ears, under bangs, on the crown, or at the neck. These spots are ideal for initial checks.
Performing a lice check
The most reliable method is using a fine-toothed lice comb. Drape a white towel or paper underneath the head. Lice (gray-blue or reddish-brown) will fall onto the white surface for easy spotting. You may also see nits—tiny, gray-white eggs firmly attached near the hair roots.
Shampoo and lotion treatments
Available at drugstores, effective options include products with dimethicone, malathion, or permethrin. Shampoos kill lice quickly; comb them out afterward. No residual effect, so repeat after a week to prevent reinfestation. Lotions offer longer protection. Ask pharmacy staff for precise instructions. If malathion or permethrin fails, switch products.
Using a lice comb
After treatment, rinse thoroughly and comb daily for two weeks to remove all lice and nits. Apply conditioner for easier combing—lice combs have fine teeth. Loosen stubborn nits with vinegar.
Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and babies
Avoid malathion and permethrin during pregnancy or breastfeeding; opt for combing. Use dimethicone only after consulting a doctor. For babies under 6 months, seek GP advice first.
Hygiene facts
No need for embarrassment—lice prefer clean hair and have nothing to do with poor hygiene.
Meet Cristina
Cristina Knollema-Lertora is a licensed druggist at a Certified Specialist in Self-Care drugstore. This quality mark ensures expert advice on over-the-counter remedies. Find certified stores at www.erkendspecialistinzelfzorg.nl.
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