If you have spent some time watching the news lately then you probably saw the recent segment on lice infestations. It is thought that the popular “selfie” trend is causing an increase in these little critters. Who would have thought that taking a quick photo with a friend would actually be the gateway to bug swapping? It gives me the creepy crawlies thinking about it! I remember having lice as a kid and it was no fun. The only perk is being able to stay home from school for a few days until the six legged critters die off. Thank goodness Toodie has not come home with it yet. I know it’s bound to happen but until then I can take precautions.
There’s actually an outbreak of a new strain of lice—dubbed “super lice”—that is more resistant to over the counter lice treatments. That’s why Cozy Friedman, a mom of two and founder of Cozy’s Cuts for Kids salons in New York City, recommends using preventative measures to scare away lice attacks, all summer long.
“Lice happens. It can happen to anyone! But it doesn’t have to happen to your kids. First, you have to educate your children about lice and how it’s contracted. Then you have to teach your kids how to avoid it,” says Cozy. “For example, tell them never to share hats, brushes or combs with their friends and to use their own pillowcases.” They should probably avoid “selfies” with classmates too!
- Boo! Shampoo ($14.50, www.socozy.com): Scare lice away with natural repellents like pure tea tree, rosemary and lavender oils. Good-for-you ingredients such as aloe and panthenol soothe the scalp and add body and shine. To use, apply a modest amount to wet hair and massage into a low lather. Leave in for up to five minutes and rinse.
- Boo! Leave-In Conditioner ($14.50, www.socozy.com): This lightweight, multifunctional detangling spray keeps lice on the run with repellent ingredients including tea tree, rosemary and lavender oils. Ultra-healthy aloe, calendula, and wheat protein soothe the scalp, strengthen hair and prevent damage from blow-drying. To use, lightly mist over the hair and scalp and brush or comb through. Ideal for use following Boo! Shampoo, the formula can also be applied to dry hair while playing outdoors or anytime you want to strengthen up the lice defense.
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