Lice Treatment and Allergies-What You Need To Know

When you find out that your child or you have lice, the first thing you want to do is “de-louse”! You want the critters out of your hair and you will probably go to just about any measure to get it done. However, what you might not think about is that these products, whether chemical or non-chemical, could cause potential allergic reactions. Before you use a product, it is very important to look at the ingredients and see if any of the allergy information applies to you or your child.  If you are not sure, you should always look at the ingredients and check with your doctor.

For example, if you have ragweed allergies, you should not use any product that contains permethrin and pyrethrin. You should also avoid these products if you are allergic to chrysanthemums because they are made of them.

Other non-chemical treatments available may be organic and contain no preservatives. They are often sodium laurel sulfate and methylparaben free. Other options on the market are made from essential oils. Included in these products may be cinnamon oil, wheat proteins, meadow foam oil, black willow bark oil, neem oil, tea tree oil and peppermint oil. Notwithstanding the organic nature of these products, if you are allergy sensitive, it is always best to refer to the list of ingredients and it is recommended that you speak to your doctor before using the products.  Moreover, people who have severe nut allergies should stay away from meadow foam oil, black willow bark oil and tea tree oil as they can cause skin rashes and neem oil can cause difficulty breathing.

The general rule of thumb is that if you allergy sensitive, it is always best to review the ingredients of any product that you use, and if in doubt, speak to your physician.

Best,

Lauren Salzberg

Potomac Lice Lady

www.potomaclicelady.com

lauren@potomaclicelady.com

240-390-NITS(6487)