Just mention the word “lice,” and many people will shiver and start scratching their heads. Those little bugs can make a grown man cry! People often associate lice with poor hygiene, elementary school, and summer camp, but the truth is, it can happen to anyone at any time.
There was an outbreak at my son’s daycare center just this month. Thankfully, we were on vacation and were lucky enough not to bring it home this time. But it got me thinking more and more about it and how to handle it when it does come our way.
It’s best to be prepared, just in case those little guys make it to your house. Welcome to Lice 101!
Step 1: Understanding
According to the CDC, head lice are small bugs that latch onto human hair and feed on human blood. They lay eggs (nits) that hatch quickly, causing the scalp to itch. Although the bugs do not jump or fly, they often spread quickly through close human contact and the sharing of items such as hats, bedding, helmets, scarves, and dress-up clothes. This is why it is often found in classrooms and camps where people are in close contact. It is essential to understand that head lice are not a reflection of poor hygiene. In fact, lice prefer to latch on to clean hair.
Step 2: Prevention
The best way to prevent head lice is to take proactive measures. I discovered the Fairy Tales Hair Care products and used the hairspray on my kids in the morning before they went to school or camp. So far, so good! There is also a shampoo and conditioner product to use if you choose. It’s also important to teach your kids that sharing hats, helmets, hair ties, and masks is not always a good idea. It’s impossible to protect your child from everything as a mom, but it’s a good start to teach them about lice, so they think twice before sharing these items.
Step 3: Action
Stay calm! You didn’t do anything wrong. Your kid is not dirty. Your home isn’t either. It just happens. You have several options for addressing it. You can do a home treatment that includes a super-fine tooth comb and special shampoo. These are readily available at CVS, Walgreens, and online at Amazon.
In Fairfield County, we have several options for head lice removal salons. These are places where you can go to find professionals trained in removing head lice. If privacy or time is an issue, they can also come to your house. Here is a shortlist that I found by a quick Google search.
- The Hair Genies is a salon in Westport.
- Lice Happens has in-home services for lower Fairfield County.
- Lice Doctors offers in-home services throughout Fairfield County.
- The Lice Treatment Center has offices in Fairfield and Darien. They also treat lice at home, in schools, and at camps.
- DerLice in Bridgeport will come to your home.
Step 4: Healing
An infestation of lice in your home can leave you feeling tired and frustrated – not to mention grossed out! However, rest assured that it is not your fault, and it has happened to many people that you know. You are not alone!
Now you know some prevention steps and action steps to help keep them away. Remember to check your children and yourself regularly so that if lice do break into your home, you can take action immediately.
