Lice. This four-letter word name for a
tiny little parasite that lives on your scalp, can make anyone shake in their boots. Lice are a nuisance more than anything, and people tend to panic when they suspect they themselves, or someone else around them has lice.
It also has to do with the common misconception that having lice is a sign of poor hygiene, which also leads to stigmatization of the individual who has them. Contrary to popular belief, however, lice actually prefer cleaner heads and honestly, anyone can get them.
If anyone can get lice, how do I lower my chances?
There are a lot of ways to prevent lice infestation. First and foremost, it’s important to understand that lice are transferred via head to head contact. This means that unless you put your head against someone who already has lice, it’s unlikely that you’ll get them. They can’t fly and cling to hair shafts to feed on your scalp.
How can you minimize chances of lice infestation though?
Don’t Bump Heads
A selfie session can turn ugly quickly if your photo buddy has a head full of lice. Try to avoid activities that require head-to-head contact, as that’s the primary way lice spread. Keep your distance whenever possible.
Don’t share hair accessories and tools
Another way is to not use other people’s hairbrushes, combs, hats and headbands. Basically anywhere that hair can be trapped or lice and their nits can be hidden away. Other ways lice transfer is through sharing hoodies, towels, pillowcases and more. Anything that comes in contact with your body has a chance of passing on lice. So it’s best to be wary.
Lice can live away from the scalp too
Though they can’t really
survive longer than 24 hours away from the scalp, they can survive up to 48 hours in upholstery and carpeting. This is why stuffed toys are often targets too, and should be stored away for around 48 hours following an infestation.
Check your hair regularly
The best thing to do is to check your hair at least once a week or once in two weeks, to make sure the coast is clear. Keep a fine-toothed comb handy and brush through your locks to make sure any eggs that may have been left behind are gone.
Remember, anyone can get lice, and in case you’ve caught the bug, drop by our
lice clinic in Kendall.
Lice Troopers is a professional lice removal service, so we know how to help you!
Book an appointment here.
