Science!

[goldfish42]

The kiddo and I are currently science experiments. This would be easier if I had access to some simple lab equipment, but I don't, so I'm performing the experiments on us directly.

He got head lice, probably from school. We have each shampooed twice with louse shampoo, which is supposed to kill them and leave a residue that "prevents reinfestation

Comments

[featheredfrog]

During my only infestation, I got a prescription for something (have no recollection >30 years) that worked well. FAR better than OTC shampoos/lotions.

[valasia]

The problem is that over time the lice are growing more and more immune to the medications in the over the counter shampoos. I had them once and I tried all the shampoos and home treatments that people suggested. Finally what did it really was nitpicking every day. Eventually it got to where they were only in certain areas (back of the neck and behind the ears), so it took a lot less time by then.

[violindaine]

Don't forget to disinfect all the bedding, clothing, stuffed animals etc.

[clemtaur]

Another thing to try is lemon juice. I've recently gone back to this one for some relief from bad 'wet' dandruff.

[leannan_sidhe]

When I was a kid, with about the same amount and kind of hair I have now, two things worked wonders. First, mayonnaise, thickly and thoroughly rubbed into the hair and then left overnight (wrapped), to smother the lice. Its messy, but kills them safely and conditions hair at the same time.

Second, shower + conditioner + flea comb. Every time I took a shower I'd flea comb my hair (took... 15-30 min?) Any conditioner seemed to do the trick. I might follow up with some rosemary/lavender hair oil to discourage strays from moving back in, but it worked for me. Best of luck!