Text Box: 8. Is it necessary to cut my child’s hair in an effort to get rid of lice? Sometimes very long and thick hair makes the process of picking nits uncomfortable for the child and more difficult. It is not impossible however. An attractive shorter hair style can be selected that makes the treatment process easier. It is not beneficial or recommended to shave the child’s head. Shaving a child’s head can be damaging to their self-esteem and can leave a child open to teasing from other children. Do lice shampoos kill the insects and their eggs? These products may kill some nits. There is no substitute for picking the nits off the hair. If these are not removed, they will hatch and the infestation will come back. 10. Can I use pet shampoo or other household products? Animal treatments are not safe or effective. Lice are specific to humans. Other household products such as kerosene, gasoline or lighter fluid are EXTREMELY DANGEROUS. In some cases, they have resulted in severe injury or death. PLEASE DO NOT USE THESE PRODUCTS. Household products such as mayonnaise or olive oil can be effective treatments. Their use is explained in this brochure. 11. Does mayonnaise really work in treating this problem? Many experts are recommending this treatment as a safe and effective method. The mayonnaise smothers the lice. 12. Is it important to spray my furniture with the aerosol sprays available on the market today? A complete vacuuming of the carpet, mattresses and furniture is all that is recommended. Using the vacuum attachments is quite effective and allows you to reach into small cracks. Don’t forget to vacuum the car interior. Washables can go into the washer in hot water followed by the dryer. Non-washables can be placed in tightly sealed plastic bags for 14 days. 13. How does vinegar help with nit removal or is this a myth? Vinegar is effective in loosening the glue the louse uses to attach the nit to the hair shaft. A vinegar solution of 1 cup vinegar to 1 cup warm water can be used. 14. What will prevent my child from getting lice? NOTHING! You cannot completely prevent your child from being infested with lice. Daily shampooing of the hair WILL NOT prevent lice. You can instruct your child to avoid sharing brushes, combs, hats, helmets, and other hair accessories with anyone. Develop a regular schedule for checking your child’s head for lice. Screening once a week allows you to catch the problem earlier. If you find your child has lice, notify the school as soon as possible so other children can be checked and treated in the early stages.