Head lice are small, wingless parasitic insects that live on human heads and feed on blood. Infestations are common, particularly among children who have close head-to-head contact at school or during play. Head lice infestations are not caused by poor hygiene, but they are a nuisance that can cause itching, scalp irritation, and embarrassment. Many treatments are available to eradicate head lice. One popular method that has gained popularity in recent years is using a blow dryer to zap lice. But is this method effective?
What is a blow dryer?
A blow dryer, also known as a hair dryer, is a handheld tool that blows hot or cool air to dry and style hair. Blow dryers come in various sizes and shapes, but most have a motor-driven fan that pushes air over a heating element to create warm air. The warm air is then blown through a nozzle that directs the air to the hair. Blow dryers may also have attachments like diffusers, concentrators, and styling brushes.
How can a blow dryer kill lice?
Proponents of using a blow dryer to kill lice claim that the heat from the dryer kills the lice and their eggs. They suggest that a blow dryer can be used as a natural, chemical-free alternative to traditional lice treatments like shampoos, creams, and sprays, which may contain pesticides or other chemicals. Using a blow dryer may also be less expensive than purchasing lice treatments.
Does heat kill lice and their eggs?
Studies have shown that heat can be an effective method to kill lice and their eggs, also called nits. Lice and nits cannot survive at temperatures higher than 54 degrees Celsius or 129 degrees Fahrenheit. Even brief exposure to high heat can kill lice, but nits are more resistant and may require longer exposure. The heat must also penetrate through the hair and directly onto the lice and nits. Blow dryers may not be as effective as other heat sources like specialized heated combs or professional-grade hair dryers that can generate higher temperatures and target the lice and nits more precisely.
How to use a blow dryer to kill lice?
If you want to try using a blow dryer to kill lice, here are the steps you should follow:
- Wash the hair with shampoo and conditioner and towel dry it.
- Section the hair into small sections using hair clips.
- Set the blow dryer to the highest heat setting and turn on the cool air button.
- Hold the dryer about an inch away from the hair and slowly move it over each section of the hair.
- Pay special attention to the nape of the neck and behind the ears.
- Blow dry for at least 30 minutes, making sure that the hair is completely dry.
- Repeat this procedure every other day for at least two weeks.
It is important to note that using a blow dryer to kill lice may be time-consuming and not as effective as other methods. It is also not recommended for people with sensitive scalps, as the heat can cause further irritation.
What are the other ways to get rid of lice?
There are several other ways to get rid of lice, including:
- Lice shampoos: These are medicated shampoos that kill lice and nits. They usually contain pesticides like permethrin or pyrethrin.
- Lice creams and lotions: These are also medicated treatments that kill lice and nits. They may contain different active ingredients like benzyl alcohol or ivermectin.
- Wet-combing: This involves using a fine-toothed comb to manually remove lice and nits from the hair. It may require multiple sessions and can be time-consuming.
- Prescription medications: These are stronger treatments that require a prescription from a doctor. They may be necessary in cases of severe or persistent infestations.
Conclusion
Using a blow dryer to kill lice may be an attractive option for those looking for a natural, chemical-free method to eradicate lice. However, the effectiveness of using a blow dryer to kill lice is not well-documented, and it may not be as effective as other methods. It is important to follow the proper procedure and use caution when using a blow dryer to avoid burns or further scalp irritation. If you suspect that you or your child has head lice, it is best to consult a healthcare professional or licensed pest control operator for appropriate treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a blow dryer kill lice?
A blow dryer may be able to kill lice, but it is not as effective as other methods like medicated shampoos or wet-combing. If you want to use a blow dryer, it is important to use the proper procedure and follow safety precautions to avoid burns or further scalp irritation.
How hot does a blow dryer need to be to kill lice?
Lice and their eggs cannot survive at temperatures higher than 54 degrees Celsius or 129 degrees Fahrenheit. A blow dryer set on the highest heat setting may be able to generate enough heat to kill lice, but it may not be as effective as other heat sources like specialized heated combs or professional-grade hair dryers that can generate higher temperatures and target the lice and nits more precisely.
Can a blow dryer kill lice eggs?
Lice eggs, also called nits, are more resistant to heat than adult lice. They may require longer exposure to higher temperatures to kill them. It is unclear if a blow dryer can provide enough heat to kill lice eggs effectively.
Is using a blow dryer to kill lice safe?
Using a blow dryer to kill lice can be safe if you follow the proper procedure and use caution. However, the heat from the blow dryer can cause burns or further scalp irritation, especially in people with sensitive scalps. It is important to use the blow dryer at a safe distance from the scalp and not to overheat the hair.
What are the signs of a lice infestation?
The signs of a lice infestation may include:
- Itching on the scalp or neck
- Red bumps or sores on the scalp, neck, or shoulders
- Visible lice or nits on the hair shafts or scalp
- Sleep disturbances or irritability
If you suspect that you or your child has head lice, it is best to consult a healthcare professional or licensed pest control operator for appropriate treatment.
References
1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Head Lice Information for Schools. Accessed 15 June 2021. https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/lice/head/schools.html
2. Frankowski BL, Bocchini JA Jr, Council on School Health and Committee on Infectious Diseases. Clinical Report—Head Lice. Pediatrics. 2010 Nov 1;126(5):392-403.
3. Meinking TL, Taplin D, Hermida JL, Pomeranz M. Infestations. In: Bolognia JL, Jorizzo JL, Schaffer JV, eds. Dermatology. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Mosby Elsevier; 2012: Chap 58.