Use a Fine Tooth Comb, Keep Nit Picking.... What You Should Know About Lice
Apr 05 '05 (Updated Apr 29 '05)
The Bottom Line Nits, Lice, Louse... the mention alone is enough to make your head itch. Take a deep breath, educate yourself, realize that any person can get them. Perseverance required for treatment!
Society often holds a wrongful conception that Lice infestations happen to people who are dirty and perhaps poor. It is true that dirty and/or poor people might get Lice, but every person needs to realize that Lice do not realize the SocioEconomic status or Hygienic practices of the head(s) they select for residence. No they don't run a credit check on the victim, nor do Lice avoid clean heads. In fact it is thought Lice actually prefer clean hair:
"Head lice prefer clean hair - but will get on anyone: young, old, rich, poor, clean, dirty."*1
With two daughters attending public school, I have at times received notes from school (the dreaded "there was a case of Lice found in your childs classroom"). Years ago, while attending Cosmetology classes, fellow classmates found Lice/Nits on clients. Later while employed at an upscale salon, a parent brought her Lice infested child in for a haircut and when we discovered the Lice she insisted we take care of them - yeah right. When I worked in a child care center we occasionally dealt with Lice infestations. Luckily during the ten years that I provided in-home daycare, no children were diagnosed with it. Now, as a child care center Director, we have adopted a No Nit policy, and I will likely deal with informing parents of the dreaded news.
Recently I was informed about two cases of Lice at the dance studio my daughters attend, and I heard about a few cases at the public school my youngest daughter attends.
It has been a weekly practice of mine to casually look at my daughters heads for Lice: looked at the roots of the hair, at the nape and behind the ears. At times I would happen upon a dec plug or perhaps hair product build-up, but never found Lice or Nits. Although I have always casually checked for Lice, due to recent outbreaks, I was -should I say- on high alert. Unfortunately my 'luck' recently changed, when I discovered Lice on my youngest daughter (10).
After much internal debate with regard to rather or not to share about our experience, I decided that an editorial might assist others toward knowing more about Lice and perhaps toward having more compassion toward those who deal with them. Therefore I will share about this personal chapter of our lives. I hope to educate some readers with regard to Lice checks and discovery, natural (versus possibly harmful chemical) treatments, and perhaps serve as witness that with perseverance you can conquer a Lice infestation.
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DETAILS
Nit, Nymph, Louse, Lice?
Lice are human parasites, requiring human blood for survival; they will not survive longer than 24 hours off the host (human head). Lice are spread through direct contact of head/hair with an individual that has Lice. This can be via head to head touch, or via use of a hat, helmet, comb, brush, etc. from a person that has a Lice infestation. A single Lice is a Louse, a Louse Egg is a Nit, and a newly hatched Louse is a Nymph.
Examine the Head and Educate the Mind!
It is recommended that you check your childs head weekly for nits and/or Lice. At the end of this review I share helpful links. I suggest that you view several pictures of Lice and Nits, as the critters and eggs vary in appearance. Also, it is important to realize that although Lice and Nits might be found at the nape of the neck and behind the ears, check the entire head!
I highly recommend that every household own a Licemeister comb. Eye examination of the head is useful, checking with the Licemeister comb might offer expedited diagnosis. Trust me when I say that the earlier you know the better. It also is very helpful to use magnifying glasses while examining the head (nits and nymphs are tiny). Quite simply, you might not see the Lice or the Nits without magnification. I know realize that it is also recommended to have a Lice comb on-hand, to test for possible Lice infestations (sterilized in-between uses). If you are conducting multiple examinations, I suggest purchasing Check A Head Screening Sticks (or a similar product).
Additionally I highly recommend, that -after reading this editorial- you educate yourself and your child(ren) with regard to Lice. Trust me, it is better to know a plan of action and be knowledgeable prior to the need for it. Also, children might be less likely to, dare I say, Freak Out?!
Your local health department possibly has infomercials, pamphlets or other helpful information. A great place to visit is www.headlice.org, home of the National Pediculosis Association. This site also has a Just For Kids section, a lot of handouts, and you can request a free Critter Card. You can also purchase the Licemeister comb, and other helpful items. Be prepared in advance!
Found... Now What?
If you happen to find Lice and/or Nits, first of all -as hard as it might be- don't panic. Take a deep breath and prepare for the tedious task of Lice and Nit removal. The unwelcomed journey is exhausting, long, and frustrating. Importantly, this is a good time to be anal retentive; Nit removal is very time consuming (if done properly).
Do not run to the store and purchase chemical Lice remedies. Do not run to your medical provider and request a chemical prescription. These products are not a one-time cure all.
"There are no over-the-counter or prescription treatments to kill lice that are totally safe and scientifically proven to be 100% effective against head lice and nits. These treatments are potentially harmful pesticides and reliance on them promotes repeated use and contributes to ongoing infestations, outbreaks and resistant strains of head lice."*2
Supplies to Have on Hand:
-Metal Toothed Nit Comb
(http://www.headlice.org/licemeister/index.htm)
-Immobilizing Gel or Substance
(http://www.wallace-medical.com/liceout.htm)
(http://www.quantumhealth.com/)
-Hair Cape and/or White Towel
-Hair Section Clips
(http://www.sallybeauty.com/shop/2230/292515)
-Rubbing Alcohol
-Rattail Comb or Pintail Comb
(http://www.sallybeauty.com/shop/1810/275013)
-Sheet for the Floor
-Magnifying Glasses/Glass
-White Paper Towels
-Tweezers
In order to get rid of Lice, you need to section the hair off, and go through the hair with a fine tooth comb; you'll literally be a nit-picker, for 21 days. (Ever wonder where those terms came from?) Have you heard people talk about reinfestations? Usually the patient is not reinfested, instead proper manual removal of the live lice and nits didn't occur. Be prepared to comb the hair for 21 days, preferably twice a day. There are reinfestation possibilities, as it is important that all family members are checked and schools/daycares/child care centers/playgroups should screen all classmates.
The initial treatment process will likely be the most tedious. It is recommended that you use immobilizing gel or substance (some reports state that olive oil works), making it easier to remove the live Lice. I will share details about our experience in the latter part of this editorial. Again, this is not a one time comb attempt: 21 days of manual removal are recommended.
Pets
A Louse will not survive on pets, nor can you get Lice from pets. Pets should not be treated for Lice, as this is not necessary and if chemicals are used can actually be damaging.
Around the Home: Care of Furniture, Stuffed Animals, & Such
You should vacuum furniture, flooring, car seats, stuffed animals and beds (to remove fallen hairs that might have nits on them). We were told to place all stuffed animals and non-washable hairdos into plastic bags for 21 days.
It is recommended that you concentrate the majority of your energy toward manual Lice & Nit removal on the human head. Nits require warmth to hatch, making it less likely they'll hatch when off of a human head. However if they do, they are unlikely to survive more than 24 hours, as the Louse needs human blood to survive.
Soak combs and brushes in rubbing alcohol for 1 hour and cleanse with hot water and soap.
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PERSONAL DETAILS
More Details About Our Battle
One morning after styling my daughters hair, a zig part down the middle and pigtails to the side, I noticed a bug on top of her head. Considering that merely two days prior, the dance studio owner warned me that a younger dancer, who liked to hug on my daughter, had been diagnosed with lice, I was instantly mortified. I instructed my daughter to hold still.... I snatched the bug, and put it into a baggie (zipped shut). Upon realization of what was transpiring, my daughter broke into tears and was trembling. After calming her down, I phoned our local health department. Although I thought the 'bug' was most likely a Louse, I wasn't certain, so I simply inquired with regard to if they could look at it and possibly confirm. They stated that they needed to see the 'patient' and instructed me to bring my daughter in. I am actually glad that I did this, as the nurses were so helpful, calm, knowledgeable and kind. They examined my daughter, and confirmed she had Lice/Nits. My daughter and I viewed a video together, which seemed to calm her and provided good information with regard to how to deal with this situation.
We were given a bottle of LiceOut, a LiceOut Comb, and a booklet: Lice Aren't Nice. My Mother, a Cosmetologist and Salon owner, happened to be closed that day, and instructed us to come over. We placed a plastic cape around my daughters neck, and proceeded to follow directions listed in the booklet. We altered the directions, as I knew six sections weren't enough. I sectioned as though I was preparing to give a perm. My daughter has very thick, naturally curly, long hair.
I knew this was going to be a lengthy task, however I don't think I was mentally prepared for the nine hour adventure (nightmare). First I used the LiceOutImmobilizing Gel and the LiceOut Comb. After completion of combing we washed and conditioned her hair, and used a hair dryer to dry it. My Mother suggested doing the procedure again, using HairClean 1-2-3 Head Lice Treatment Kit. I wasn't initially convinced that this was necessary, as I didn't see many Lice or Nits removed during the initial comb through.
For the 2nd procedure I wore a pair of reading glasses for magnification purposes. I am thankful my Mother persisted, as this 2nd procedure revealed live Lice and additional nits. I was shocked and mortified. For the 2nd procedure, we placed HairClean 1-2-3 throughout the dry hair, again parted off the hair, and used a rattail comb to section of portions and the metal-toothed comb to conquer. My daughter loathed the smell of this product (it smells like licorice). However the Lice didn't like it either, they were slowed way down! At this point we also used tweezers to nit-pick (dipping them in alcohol in-between removals). With the use of magnifying glasses, we could view nits that the lice removal comb didn't remove and that we couldn't see without the visual aid.
Upon completion we cleansed her head and put it up into a high bun. We changed our clothing, bagging and later laundering the 'dirty' clothes. That evening my daughter slept on a sleeping bag (as we decided it would be easier to clean and sanitize a sleeping bed and air mattress versus her entire bed again and again).
Day Two and Three
My Mother took my daughter to her salon... she placed mayonnaise onto my daughters scalp and hair, and placed a bag over it. We left this on for four hours (recommendation by a local pediatrician). After cleaning with Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Shampoo and Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Conditioner, I performed a metal-toothed comb through with the Licemeister. My oldest daughter assisted me, providing a second set of eyes to view the hair shafts. In between combings, I dipped the Licemeister comb into alcohol and wiped it onto a white paper towel (allows you to see any nits). There were no Lice during this comb out, yet we did remove Nits. Again, I was shocked and amazed, as these were not viewable with the naked eye.
Upon completion of this process, I was feeling confident that we had got all of the nits, yet knew I would persevere with the 21 day plan. We both changed our clothing, bagging and later laundering the 'dirty' clothes.
This just so happened to be the day that a dance competition was starting. I parted my daughters hair into a zig middle part, placed got2b Spiked Up Max Control Styling Gel onto it, placed it into pigtails, and proceeded to wrap it (in curlers), which would stay in place for spiral curl formations (for competition on the following day). It was my view that if -by chance- there were any Lice, they would be further suffocated. However I really didn't think there were. She slept with her hair like that, and the next day after looking at her hair via use of a magnifying glass, I was comfortable that all was well. I removed the rollers, the style was great, and the competition went very well. I honestly thought that my daughter was Nit free. We got home so late that night, I gave her permission to go to bed (again on a make shift bed).
Day Four
We, again, utilized my Mothers salon. After washing her hair with Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Shampoo and Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Conditioner, I sectioned it off. I proceeded to comb through, using a rattail comb to select 1" sections and then the Licemeister comb. I will admit that -knowing how complete I was with the process during the previous combing sessions, I wasn't expecting to find any nits, but did. I was -again- shocked and mortified. At this point I felt discouraged but knew I had to persevere. I also questioned in my mind how many supposed reinfestations are actually just the result of non-complete treatments. I went into this session thinking it would be quick, but when certain 1" partings revealed 0-3 nits, I knew I had to reexamine the scalp and hair shafts, in 1/16" parts. Again wearing the magnifying glasses, my Mother and I examined each section, using the tweezers as needed.
We didn't use immobilizing substance, as we weren't finding live Lice. Although I feel that use of an immobilizing substance is vital during the initial treatment, it is my view that it is easier to see the nits on a clean hair strand.
After every comb through, I dunked and swirled the Licemeister comb into a cup of alcohol, and wiped it on a white paper towel. I then held it up to the light to see if I needed to remove any nits from the comb, if so I used the tweezers or dental floss. If I suspected a spot was missed, I used a hand-held magnifying glass in addition to the glasses. This yielded removal of a couple microscopic nits and a few fuzzes or flakes. In all, this process took 5 hours.
We both changed our clothing, bagging and later laundering the 'dirty' clothes. I will be honest and tell you that I was exhausted, as was my daughter, and there were points of the treatment upon which I wanted to cry. At one point my daughter did. However we were insistent that we would conquer this task, as we want to be DONE with this chapter of time.
Day Five
My daughter (and I) didn't even want to hear the word Lice, and dreaded the daily comb treatment. However we knew that persistence is important. Armed with a child size vinyl cape, pintail comb, Licemeister comb, cup of rubbing alcohol, section clips, magnifying glasses, handheld magnifying glass, white paper towels, and tweezers... we proceeded with the tedious task. This time we did the procedure at our home. The kitchen has plenty of floor space, and there is a television in the family room, allowing my daughter to focus on TV.
I really hoped to find zero Nits. Thankfully I found zero Lice, but did find a few Nits (approximately 5). Afterwards, we cleansed her hair and scalp with Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Shampoo and Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Conditioner, and placed her hair into a bun on top of her head. We were thankful that the process only took two-hours. Someone please remind me, does my daughter really need to have long hair? Five days down, sixteen to go.
Day Six
Followed same procedure as Day Five, one Nit found. I am both puzzled (considering how complete I have been with the comb sessions) and thrilled (one is so much better than 2 or more, especially considering that a Louse lays 3-8 eggs per day). Honestly, although the comb was boiled, cleaned, and left in alcohol overnight... I can't be sure it didn't come from the comb.
Day Seven
Followed same procedure as Day Five, no Nits found! Doing a happy dance!
Day Eight
Followed same procedure as Day Five, one Nit found. Although it was frustrating I realize this was probably missed on previous comb throughs (even though I was careful). Thus showing how important it is to do this for 21 days.
Day Nine - Day Twenty-Four
Followed same procedure as Day Five, no Nits found!
(On day eleven I cut 3" off, as the split-ends (most likely from the alcohol and comb) needed to be removed.)
Closing Thoughts
My daughter has stated that she clearly agrees with the slogan our local health department uses: Lice Aren't Nice! The cliche terms that include nit-picky, or fine tooth comb have new meaning to my now. Properly taking care of Lice is time consuming and mentally exasperating. This situation has been stressful, causing frustration and anxious moments. A normal itch or feeling on the scalp leads to us quickly examining each others scalps and hair. Upon witnessing the behaviors of certain parents at the dance studio, I feel that the television show Desperate Housewives (on a recent episode in which there is a lice breakout at the school that Lynettes boys attend) did a fine job of portraying the emotions and parental behaviors involved . I certainly wish this chapter of time was an episode on Wisteria Lane versus reality! Knowing our 'clean' lifestyle, certain parents wanted to cast blame onto the parent of a different team member, again Lice infestations are not based on cleanliness or salaries earned.
The most important points I want to make are:
-Lice and Nits are Various Colors and Sizes
Don't rely on a quick look behind the ears or at the nape for diagnosis. The primary area of discovery on my daughters head was on the top of the head, on the right side and on the crown portion of the right side.
-Don't automatically treat with possibly harmful chemicals
Get a lice comb, an immobilizing substance, tweezers, and other items mentioned. Use magnifying glasses. Perform comb treatments for 21 days. Even if you don't see any Lice or Nits.
-Educate yourself and your child in advance.
We must stop the thought process that Lice are a result of being dirty. Any person can get Lice, although they tend to prefer a clean head.
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Quotes:
*1
http://www.snohd.org/licearentnice/Lice_WEB_Pgs.pdf
*2
http://www.headlice.org/
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For More Information:
-Pictures
http://www.headlice.org/faq/lousology.htm
-General Information, Free "Critter Card", National Pediculosis Association, LiceMeister Comb
http://www.headlice.org/
-General Information About Lice
http://www.doh.wa.gov/Publicat/PaperPubs/lice.htm#3 step
-LiceOut Immobilizing Gel
http://www.wallace-medical.com/liceout.htm
-HairClean 1-2-3 Head Lice Treatment Kit
http://www.quantumhealth.com/
-Lindane Education And Research Network
"When a child is exposed to lice, parents are often told to apply shampoos containing the pesticide lindane. But lindane is a toxic chemical - Rachel Carson identified it as a serious threat to people and the environment in Silent Spring back in 1962. It's been on Pesticide Action Network's "Dirty Dozen" list of most toxic pesticides since 1985, and the U.S. has banned many of its uses, including use on pets, since then. Yet incredibly, lindane shampoos are still used on children even though safe, healthy alternatives exist."
http://www.headlice.org/lindane/index.htm
-Malathion
"Organophosphate pesticides (OPs), which include the widely used insecticide malathion, are chemically related to nerve gases developed during World War II. For decades, scientists have been debating whether such pesticides cause birth defects, cancers, and other health problems."
http://www.headlice.org/malathion/index.html
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Thank you for reading and feel free to email with questions!
©2005 Lisa_J
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Lisa_J
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Location: Pacific Northwest - Washington State
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Mom of two wonderfully spirited daughters. Childcare Director. Spectator fan of dance.
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