zaro

Do Lice Hate Heat?

Published in Lice Treatment 2 mins read

Yes, lice hate dry heat, making it an effective method for killing them and their eggs (nits).

This aversion to heat is why washing and drying clothing, bedding, and other items at high temperatures is a recommended step in treating lice infestations.

How Heat Kills Lice

  • Dehydration: High temperatures cause lice to lose moisture rapidly, leading to dehydration and death.
  • Protein Denaturation: The proteins that make up lice and their eggs are sensitive to heat. When exposed to high temperatures, these proteins break down, disrupting essential biological processes.

Practical Application of Heat for Lice Treatment

  • Washing and Drying: Wash infested items in hot water (at least 130°F or 54°C) and then dry them in a hot dryer for at least 20 minutes. This effectively kills lice and nits.
  • Sealing Items: For items that can't be washed and dried, sealing them in airtight bags for two weeks will also kill the lice. This approach deprives them of a food source and they will eventually die.
  • Hair Dryers and Straighteners: While hair dryers and straighteners can kill lice, they aren't recommended as primary treatment methods due to the risk of burns and uneven heat distribution. They might kill some lice, but are not a reliable way to eliminate an infestation.

Limitations of Heat Treatment

While heat is effective, it's essential to note its limitations:

  • Scalp Temperature: You cannot safely apply enough heat to the scalp to kill lice and nits.
  • Comprehensive Treatment: Heat treatment alone is usually not enough to eliminate a lice infestation. It should be used in conjunction with other treatments, such as medicated shampoos or manual nit removal.