Elizabeth do you have your hair coloured? I read somewhere on the Internet (so not necessarily true) that if your hair is dyed you'll not get Head lice. I've had my hair coloured every 2 months for the last 2 years and so far haven't had an infestation *touch wood* x

I place a couple of drops of melaleuca alternifolia (sp?) tea tree oil (I buy Australian Bodycare) on my fingers and typically rub the hairline above the temples and behind the ears. It is just great to have around the house for general cuts, scrapes and bruises and can even be diluted for mouthwash.

It is good to know you are winning this battle Elisabeth.

Shared hats, scarves, etc. can spread lice, right? Girls are notorious for borrowing/sharing, at least mine is.

Julie, Zapotee -- thanks for the tea tree oil instructions. I might give it a whirl after we get rid of everything for certain. I even quite like the smell (in small doses!).

Laura, I'm very interested in this new product you describe. I'll be asking the pharmacist about it next time we're in.

Louise, no I don't colour my hair anymore, I've grown quite fond of my natural hair colour...but I do often use a blow dryer, sometimes a flatiron, and almost always some hairspray (even if I don't do rock n' roll hair). I'm sure all those things help keep lice at bay, although are probably not foolproof.

Donna, yep you're right. Not only do they share hats and stuff, but at school they all hang up their bulky winter coats right next to each other, so I'm sure there's some transfer that way.

Haven't found any lice at all for five days! Still finding the odd nit. I hope I get all of 'em eventually...

Gah! Last thing you needed.

I am not an expert as my son has never had them. But my niece and nephews were regulars. In Australia, they recommend a thick layer of cheap conditioner, and coming through. I think it works in the same way as olive oil, it is supposed to smother them, but is not quite as messy.

The other thing I have heard of the hair straightener kills them. Might be worth using yourself, while you are dealing with everyone elses.

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