If you’re thinking about purchasing an anti lice shampoo, you probably already know about some of the ingredients. These include Dimethicone, Ivermectin, Benzyl alcohol, and Tea tree oil. But what are the other ingredients? Are they necessary to get rid of lice? Let’s take a look at some of the most popular ingredients in an anti-lice shampoo to help you decide which one to buy.
Dimethicone:
A study published in 2013 shows dimethicone is safe and effective for treating head lice in children, and it has the potential to replace pesticides. Its formulation prevents lice from developing resistance to the ingredient, which may help the shampoo become a first-line treatment for pediatric head lice. Despite the limited number of studies, the efficacy of dimethicone has been proven by clinical trials.
Ivermectin:
While the majority of anti-lice shampoos contain ivermectin, there are still some safety concerns. While ivermectin is relatively safe, there is a chance that it may cause an allergic reaction, and it can be harmful if taken in large amounts. Additionally, ivermectin can interfere with vertebrate nerve impulses and muscle control. However, it has been studied extensively for over 50 years and has demonstrated anti-viral activity against viruses, including Zika and Hendra.
Benzyl alcohol:
Benzyl alcohol lotion can be applied to hair and scalp. It is used to treat head lice in children and adults and belongs to the pediculicide family. However, it does not kill lice eggs. Therefore, you need to use it twice for full effect. Moreover, it may interact with other drugs and cause side effects. Benzyl alcohol is an effective anti-lice lotion, but it should be used with caution as it has several adverse side effects.
Tea tree oil:
One of the most popular anti-lice shampoos contains tea tree oil. It has many benefits, including being a natural lice repellent. Tea tree oil is safe to use on the scalp and is a common ingredient in Hair Fairies products. It can be ingested in small amounts; but it is not a cure-all for lice. In addition to being a natural lice repellent, tea tree oil is toxic in high concentrations, so you should not use this oil on your scalp unless you know the risks and benefits of using it on your child’s skin.
