Head lice infestations are common, especially among school-aged children. Many seek home remedies like hydrogen peroxide, leading to the question: can it effectively eliminate head lice?
Hydrogen Peroxide and Head Lice
Despite anecdotal claims, hydrogen peroxide is not an effective treatment for head lice or their eggs (nits). Lice are resilient, and their outer cuticle, along with the protective shell of nits, makes them difficult to penetrate. Its chemical action is typically insufficient to overwhelm or suffocate lice safely when applied to hair.
Some suggest hydrogen peroxide might suffocate lice, but this effect is not consistently reliable. It is unlikely to kill all lice or penetrate nits, which are particularly resistant. If nits remain unhatched, the infestation will persist.
Safety of Using Peroxide on Hair and Scalp
Applying hydrogen peroxide to hair and scalp carries several risks. It can cause irritation upon contact, even at lower household concentrations (around 3%). Higher concentrations, like those for bleaching (6-10%), pose greater risk.
On the scalp, it can cause skin irritation, including burning, stinging, itching, or redness. Severe cases may result in chemical burns, especially if left on too long or if skin is sensitive.
Hydrogen peroxide can also damage hair by stripping its natural moisture, leading to dryness, brittleness, and breakage. It weakens the hair cuticle, making hair susceptible to further damage and potential color changes.
Eye exposure can cause stinging, burning, pain, redness, and temporary corneal damage.
Proven Methods for Lice Eradication
Since hydrogen peroxide is not a reliable or safe solution, it is important to use proven, evidence-based methods for lice eradication. Over-the-counter (OTC) pediculicides are a common first choice. These products often contain active ingredients like permethrin (e.g., Nix) or pyrethrins (e.g., Rid, Pronto Plus), which are effective in killing live lice. It is crucial to follow the package directions carefully, as a second treatment 7 to 10 days later is often necessary to kill any newly hatched lice before they can lay eggs.
For cases where OTC treatments are not effective, or for individuals with resistance, prescription medications are available. These include topical solutions like spinosad (e.g., Natroba), ivermectin lotion (e.g., Sklice), malathion (e.g., Ovide), and benzyl alcohol lotion (e.g., Ulesfia). Some of these prescription treatments may kill both lice and eggs, potentially reducing the need for retreatment. Additionally, oral ivermectin tablets can be prescribed for resistant infestations.
Mechanical removal, known as wet-combing, is another highly effective method that can be used alone or in conjunction with medicated treatments. This process involves thoroughly wetting the hair, applying a generous amount of conditioner to help stun the lice, and then systematically combing the hair from root to tip with a fine-toothed nit comb. This process should be repeated every few days for at least two to three weeks to ensure all lice and nits are removed. Beyond treating the individual, it is also advisable to machine wash and dry clothing, bedding, and other items used by the infested person in the two days prior to treatment using hot water and high heat to kill any remaining lice or eggs. Combs and brushes should be soaked in hot water for 5 to 10 minutes.