National Lust Day

Head lice are a common problem, especially in children. These tiny insects live on the scalp and feed on blood, which can cause itching. Although annoying, head lice do not pose serious health risks. We are here to help recognize, treat and prevent head lice.

How to recognize head lice?

Head lice are 2 to 4 millimeters in size and are gray-blue in color. After feeding on blood, they turn reddish-brown. They lay eggs, called nits, which stick to the hair as tiny dots close to the scalp. Itching is a common symptom, but not everyone experiences it. Therefore, it is important to check the hair regularly, especially in children.

How to check for head lice?

Make the hair wet and apply cream rinse.
Comp through the hair carefully with a lice comb, from the scalp to the ends of the hair.
Do this over a white paper or a white sink to see the lice or nits clearly.

How to prevent head lice?

Prevention is difficult because head lice are easily transmitted on direct contact. Regular hair checks are the best way to detect and treat an infestation early.

How to treat head lice?

There are several treatment options:

Comb or wet comb method
The most effective approach is to wet comb the hair daily for two weeks. Use cream rinse to make combing easier. This method is safe and contains no chemicals:
- Wash the hair and apply a thick layer of cream rinse.
- Comb the hair systematically with a lice comb.
- Repeat daily for two weeks.
This method removes both lice and nits.
Anti-lice agents
There are several agents available that actively kill lice. Agents containing dimeticon are recommended because they suffocate the lice. Other options include products based on permethrin or ivermectin.
Examples of products:
- Loxazol (permethrin)
- Nyda (dimeticon)
- Prioderm
PriodermLice can be resistant to certain chemicals. We are happy to advise you on the right choice.
Treatment with essential oils
Some people prefer natural products, such as tea tree oil or lavender oil. Although these methods are popular, their effectiveness is less scientifically proven.
Preventive agents
Preventive sprays and lice capes are sometimes used, for example in schools. Examples include: tea tree oil , Care Plus Anti-Louse Preventive and XT Luis Protect Spray. Although their effectiveness has not always been proven, they can help reduce infestation.

What else can you do?

Check all family members and treat if necessary to prevent reinfection.
Inform the school or daycare so other parents can be alert.
It is not necessary to wash clothes, bedding or stuffed animals extra. Lice only survive outside the hair for a short time.

Important warnings when using anti-lice remedies

Anti-lice remedies can be effective in controlling head lice, but it is important to use them safely and responsibly. Here are the most common warnings for remedies available in the Netherlands:

Chemical agents (e.g., malathion or permethrin)
- Examples: Loxazol (permethrin), Prioderm (malathion)
- Warnings:
  - Do not use in children under 6 months of age without consultation with a physician.
  - Avoid contact with the eyes, mucous membranes and damaged skin.
  - In case of allergic reactions such as skin rashes or severe irritation, stop immediately and consult a physician.
  - Do not swallow: ingestion may cause nausea and dizziness.
  - Restrict repeated use, as this may contribute to resistance in the lice.
Silicone-based agents (e.g., dimeticon)
- Examples: XT Luis, Hedrin, NYDA
- Warnings:
  - Generally safe for children, but avoid contact with eyes.
  - Do not use on children younger than the recommended age on the package (usually 6 months and up).
  - Please ventilate well during use, especially with sprays.
  - If you have existing skin problems, such as eczema, consult a doctor first.
Natural remedies (e.g., tea tree oil or lavender oil)
- Examples: Paranix Preventive Spray, Puressentiel Anti-Louse
- Warnings:
  - Can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive children.
  - Avoid use in children with asthma or respiratory problems, due to the strong odor.
  - Always test on a small piece of skin before use (patch test).
  - Do not ingest: oils may cause stomach upset or nausea.
Mechanical control (comb and lotion)
- Examples:Lice kittening with anti-lice combs (usually in combination with dimeticon)
- Warnings:
  - Always comb the hair carefully according to instructions.
  - Do not combine with multiple chemical agents to avoid scalp overload.

General safety advice

Always follow the instructions for use on the package.
Do not use a remedy more often than recommended, unless a physician advises otherwise.
If head lice persist after multiple treatments: consult a physician to rule out resistance.
Store anti-lice remedies out of the reach of children.