Head lice are one of those problems every parent hopes to avoid—tiny, stubborn insects that can quickly disrupt daily life with nonstop itching and frustration. They tend to appear most often during the school year, spreading easily through close contact or shared items like hats, brushes, and headphones. Anyone who has dealt with lice knows it requires time, effort, and patience to eliminate them completely.

These parasites are small, wingless insects that live on the scalp and survive by feeding on blood. They attach their eggs, known as nits, close to the hair roots, where warmth helps them hatch. Although lice don’t carry diseases, they can cause intense itching, irritation, and discomfort. They’re also capable of surviving off the scalp for up to two days, which is why careful cleaning is so important.

Treatment usually begins with a lice-specific shampoo or lotion. It’s important to follow the directions exactly, including how long the product should stay on the hair. While these treatments kill live lice, nits often remain and must be removed by hand.

Using a fine-toothed nit comb on damp hair is essential. Section the hair carefully and comb from the scalp downward, cleaning the comb after each stroke. This step helps prevent lice from returning. In most cases, treatment should be repeated after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched lice before they mature.

Household cleaning plays a key role as well. Wash clothes, bedding, and towels used in the previous two days in hot water. Items that can’t be washed should be sealed in plastic bags for about two weeks. Vacuum furniture, carpets, and areas where the person rested to remove any remaining lice.

To reduce the risk of future infestations, remind children not to share personal items and encourage regular scalp checks, especially during the school season. Keeping long hair tied back can also help. If lice continue to return or cause skin irritation, a healthcare provider may recommend stronger, prescription treatments. With consistency and care, lice can be fully eliminated.