Lice infestation in dreadlocks may be quite rare and it usually affects children more than adults.
But when it occurs, a head lice infestation can wreak havoc on your dreadlocks.
Lice are small parasitic insects that feed on blood from the scalp. Scratching the itchy scalp can lead to a bacterial infection which then requires an antibiotic treatment.
To avoid having to shave your head or cut off your dreads, prevention is the best way to address this problem.
Avoid Using Shampoo To Kill Lice in Dreadlocks
A shampoo containing chemical pesticides is not the best way to get rid of lice. And, combing the nits out of the long tubes of knotted dreadlocks with a fine-tooth comb is impossible.
Additionally, the pesticides from commercial lice shampoos gets trapped in the locs.
Try Simple Home Remedies To Kill Lice
Applying olive oil evenly over the scalp and covering it with a plastic bag seems to work for some. Others recommend dousing the hair with petroleum jelly, coconut oil, Listerine, and soaking locs in vinegar.
Essential oils like tea tree oil, rosemary, lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus could do the trick if applied before the problem gets out of hand.
How To Prevent A Lice Problem In Your Dreads
The best way to prevent a lice problem is to avoid sharing items that come into contact with the hair of others with a lice problem.
Avoid using hair brushes, pillowcases, and combs that are affected.
If someone in your family has come into contact with lice, wash all the items of clothing and accessories that came into contact with the lice.
Heat from the sun and bleach can help kill the little bugs and kill the nits before they form into full-grown lice.
Ensure your locs are well-maintained and pay attention to your scalp at the first sign of a lice infestation.