Head lice may be more common in school-going children, but they can also affect adults. While lice combs can be effective, experts urge precautionary steps to avoid infestation. So, we turned to Dr Karuna Malhotra, an aesthetic physician and cosmetologist from Cosmetic Skin and Homeo Clinic, and Dr Rinky Kapoor, a consultant dermatologist, cosmetic dermatologist, and dermatosurgeon at The Esthetic Clinics, Mumbai, to learn more about the symptoms, causes, and possible treatment.
What is lice infestation?
“Lice infestations, especially head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis), are most common during warm weather. Typically, the ‘lice season’ peaks in late summer and early fall when children return to school, leading to close contact in classrooms and social environments. However, lice can occur any time of the year,” said Dr Malhotra.
She added that lice are more prevalent during summer and monsoon seasons due to increased humidity and close physical interactions, “which help spread them more easily.”
Lice are usually small in size and may appear like sesame seeds, said Dr Kapoor. “They are a type of parasite insect mostly found on the scalp and the hair. Dealing with lice can be an uncomfortable experience for many. It is quite a common condition in adults as well as children. They typically appear in greyish or brown colour,” stated Dr Kapoor.
Symptoms of lice infestation
Lice infestations can cause a variety of symptoms, including:
Itching: This is the most common symptom caused by an allergic reaction to lice bites. “If you frequently feel the need to scratch your hair and scalp without any apparent reason, it may indicate a potential lice infestation,” said Dr Kapoor.
Visible lice or nits: Lice themselves or their eggs (nits) can sometimes be seen on the scalp or hair.
Sores: Scratching the scalp can lead to small red bumps or sores, which may become infected.
Irritability: Lice can cause discomfort, especially in children, leading to restlessness and sleep disturbances, said Dr Malhotra.
Causes
Dr Malhotra said lice spread primarily through close contact and sharing personal items like hats, combs, and hairbrushes. “Children in school settings are more prone to infestations due to frequent head-to-head contact. Head lice do not result from poor hygiene. They spread through direct contact and can affect anyone regardless of cleanliness,” said Dr Malhotra.
Prevention
*Avoid sharing personal items: Avoid sharing hats, combs, scarves, or bedding with others.
*Regular hair checks: Perform regular hair inspections, particularly for school-aged children.
*Educate children: Teach children to avoid head-to-head contact and sharing hair accessories.
*Use preventive products: Some natural or over-the-counter sprays claim to repel lice, said Dr Malhotra.
Lice shampoos can be effective (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)
“Parents should regularly check their children’s heads, especially after sleepovers or group activities, as early detection helps prevent widespread infestations,” said Dr Malhotra.
Treatment
Over-the-counter (OTC) Treatments: Lice shampoos or lotions containing permethrin or pyrethrin are commonly used. Dr Malhotra said, “OTC treatments can effectively kill lice, but it’s important to follow the instructions carefully and repeat the treatment after a week to catch any newly hatched nits.”
Manual removal: Use a fine-toothed lice comb to remove lice and nits from hair manually. This is often used in conjunction with medicated treatments.
Prescription treatments: For severe infestations, a doctor may prescribe more potent treatments, such as oral ivermectin or more robust topical solutions.
Home remedies: Some people use oils (e.g., tea tree oil or coconut oil), which are less reliable than medicated treatments.
What to note:
Re-infestation: Even after successful treatment, lice can return if the source of infestation (close contacts or shared items) isn’t addressed, said Dr Malhotra.
Infection risk: Intense scratching can lead to bacterial infections, which may require antibiotics, said Dr Malhotra.
Environmental cleaning: While lice can’t survive long without a host, Dr Malhotra advised washing bedding, clothing, and shared personal items in hot water to help prevent re-infestation.
While “lice don’t carry diseases,” they can cause discomfort and secondary infections if not treated promptly.
How common is lice in adults?
Lice is less common in adults than in children, said Dr Malhotra, primarily because adults typically have less close physical contact or shared environments that promote lice transmission. Dr Malhotra said, “Lice are more prevalent in children but can still affect adults, especially those in close contact with infested children, parents, and caregivers.”
Proper prevention, regular checks, and effective treatment are crucial to managing infestations.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
Lice season: Here's what to consider (Source: Freepik) 
Lice shampoos can be effective (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)
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