Head Lice Myths – 6 Common Misconceptions and Why They’re Wrong

Lice infestations are a universal problem, with a lot of information and misinformation out there on the internet about them. Not all sources are reliable, and information spread through word of mouth has a tendency to turn out to be completely wrong as well.

There many misconceptions about head lice and their treatment that are widely regarded as true. For the sake of proper lice removal and prevention, it’s imperative that we clear up these myths.

Poor Hygiene Results in Lice

Despite widespread common belief, having a poor sense of personal hygiene is not something that can lead to head lice. Washing or not washing your hair has no impact on lice. They are not washed out by mere water and shampoo, and neither do they occur as a result of dirty hair.

Lice Can Fly

Lice can neither fly nor can they jump, they can only crawl their way around. They transmit from one person’s head to another by crawling when in close contact.

An Itchy Head is a Sure Sign of Lice

Itching is considered the most obvious symptom of a lice infestation, but in fact itching does not occur at least until a few weeks after lice have made their home in your hair. It’s very likely that the itching could even be due to a number of other factors, such as dandruff, dry skin, or other scalp skin issues.

Pets Can Give You Lice

Another myth is that pets can give you lice or that your lice can be transmitted to pets. This is not true, as head lice require human blood to survive and so only use humans as hosts. Lice on pets are different kinds of parasites that rely on the specific physiology of the animal in order to survive.

Nits and Lice Spread Disease

Nits and lice cause itching, irritation, and extreme discomfort. They can be very stress inducing, and put children in particular into emotional distress and cause feelings of embarrassment. The good news, however, is that they are not a source of disease. Some have the misconception that lice infestations lead to diseases being spread, but that is not the case at all!

There is a lot of misinformation on head lice out there. In order to ensure proper lice treatment, you need professionals who have extensive, accurate knowledge of the parasites in question. At Lice Removal Pros, our technicians are well-versed in the life cycle and proper removal of lice. Locate the nearest Lice Removal Pros lice treatment center and book your appointment any time between 9 AM and 9 PM any day!