Head Lice Products: A Comprehensive Review of Treatment Options
Head lice infestations can be a frustrating and stressful experience for both children and parents. Fortunately, there are numerous head lice products available on the market to help combat these pesky parasites. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most popular and effective head lice treatment options, comparing their active ingredients, application methods, and overall efficacy.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Treatments
a. Permethrin-based products (e.g., Nix) Permethrin is a synthetic insecticide that effectively kills lice and their eggs. Products like Nix are applied to the hair and scalp, left on for a specified time, and then rinsed off. These treatments are generally safe and easy to use, but some lice may have developed resistance to permethrin.
b. Pyrethrin-based products (e.g., Rid) Pyrethrins are natural insecticides derived from chrysanthemum flowers. Products containing pyrethrins, such as Rid, work similarly to permethrin-based treatments. However, like permethrin, some lice populations may have become resistant to pyrethrins.
Prescription Medications
a. Spinosad (e.g., Natroba) Spinosad is a prescription-strength topical treatment that kills lice by disrupting their nervous system. It is applied to the hair and scalp and left on for a specified time before rinsing. Natroba has shown to be highly effective against head lice, even those resistant to other treatments.
b. Ivermectin (e.g., Sklice) Ivermectin is another prescription medication that works by paralyzing and killing lice. Sklice, a lotion containing ivermectin, is applied to the hair and scalp and rinsed off after 10 minutes. It has proven to be a highly effective treatment option.
Natural and Alternative Treatments
a. Dimethicone-based products (e.g., LiceMD) Dimethicone is a silicone-based compound that coats and smothers lice, effectively killing them. Products like LiceMD are non-toxic and pesticide-free, making them a popular choice for parents seeking a more natural approach.
b. Enzyme-based products (e.g., Licefreee!) Enzyme-based treatments, such as Licefreee!, use natural enzymes to dissolve the glue that binds nits to the hair shaft, making them easier to remove with a lice comb. These products are often used in conjunction with other treatments for optimal results.
Lice Combs
Lice combs are an essential tool in the battle against head lice. These fine-toothed combs are designed to remove lice and nits from the hair. Some popular lice combs include the Nit Free Terminator Comb and the Licemeister Comb. When used in combination with other treatments, lice combs can significantly improve the effectiveness of the overall lice elimination process.
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Head Lice Product Review – What really works
Here is what I have tried so far in the battle against nits!
| Product | How it works | Pros | Cons | Effectiveness | Cost | Rating |
| Nit comb | Using lots on conditioner, sections of the hair are combed using a special fine toothed comb to physically remove head lice and their eggs. Must be repeated every 3 -7 days | Cheap | If sections are missed the head lice life cycle will continue. Hard work, kids hate it, difficult on thick hair. Takes around 20 mins to do a proper job. | The only effective way to remove head lice eggs (nits). | ⭐ | ⭐⭐ |
| Full Marks | A combination product with a chemical solution and nit comb. Works by dehydrating the louse. The nit comb is included to remove the eggs | Kills head lice in 10 minutes.The oily solution makes combing through thick curly hair a breeze.Next to no smell. | Add another 20 mins to do the nit combing. In my opinion the packaging suggests an application will kill both nits and lice – this is not actually the case without physical combing. Very oily texture residue even after two shampoos. Do NOT use in the bath like I did opt for the washing out in the shower, otherwise an oil slick over toys and children ensures | Initially relief but I obviously wasn’t very effective with the combing as we were re-infested after a few days. This could also be because Catherine was back at an infested nursery. | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Tea Tree oil (Melaleuca oil) | Tea Tree oil is rich in monoterpenoids, which are insecticidal agents toxic to a louse’s nervous system, but generally safe for human use. | The only natural solution treatment and naturally pesticide free | Do a patch test first.You will need to experiment with concentrations. Strong yet clean smell. Expensive especially in small quantities. | You can read more in a scientific published paper here Works well as a spray on dry hair (using water as a carrier – shake well before use). | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
