Have you ever heard the myth that lice can’t survive in swimming pools? It’s a common one, and it’s even been suggested as a way to prevent lice infestations. But is it true?
Read on to find out the truth behind this myth and learn how to keep your family safe from lice when swimming.
Introduction to lice
Lice are small, parasitic insects that feed on the blood of humans. They are most commonly found in the hair of the head, but can also be found in other areas of the body such as the eyelashes, eyebrows, and pubic region.
Lice are spread through direct contact with an infested person or through contact with contaminated clothing, bedding, or other personal items. Head lice can also be spread by sharing hats, brushes, or other hair accessories.
While lice are not known to transmit any diseases, they can cause severe itching and irritation. Lice infestations are most common in children and are often treated with over-the-counter medications.
The Truth Behind the Myth: Can Lice Survive Chlorine in Swimming Pools?
Yes, lice can survive chlorine in swimming pools.
Chlorine does not kill head lice or their eggs. While it may temporarily stun lice, it is not strong enough to eliminate them or dissolve the glue that holds nits to the hair. Lice can hold their breath and cling tightly to hair strands, allowing them to survive underwater for several hours.
The risk of catching lice in a pool is low because lice do not swim or float freely, but they can still spread through shared towels, hair accessories, or close contact before and after swimming.
If you or your child has lice, it’s important to treat the lice infestation promptly to prevent spreading them to others. The CDC advises to avoid swimming and washing hair for 1–2 days after lice treatment, as this may lessen its effectiveness.
Bottom line: Chlorine isn’t a lice treatment. For effective prevention, use a lice prevention spray and avoid sharing personal items around pool time.
Prevention Tips for Avoiding Lice at Swimming Pools
If you’re worried about getting lice from swimming in public pools, there are some preventative measures you can take. First and foremost, use Lice Sisters’s lice prevention spray, which is a patented safe, non-toxic spray that helps to prevent and repel lice.
You should always avoid sharing towels, hats, or other personal items with others. Lice can live on any type of hair, regardless of its cleanliness. If you do use a shared towel, make sure to wash it in hot water afterwards.
Finally, avoid sitting on shared surfaces like benches or lounge chairs without a towel. Adult lice can live for about 24 hours when it leaves the human head.
Treatment Options if You Happen to pick up Lice from a Pool
If you have picked up lice from a pool, the best treatment option for your child is the Lice Sister’s Lice Removal Kit. The non-toxic natural nit glue dissolver spray kills lice in minutes and dissolves nit glue by breaking down the glue that bonds eggs to the hair shaft.
Over-the-counter treatments found at drugstores and pharmacies can contain harsh chemicals that are bad for your child and the environment. Prescription treatments are stronger than over-the-counter treatments and may be more effective in treating lice, but at a cost. Home remedies are not advised, including using vinegar, olive oil, or lemon juice to kill lice.
If you suspect you or your child has lice after visiting a pool, it’s crucial to treat the lice infestation promptly to prevent spreading to others. While lice cannot be transmitted through pool water, they can easily spread through direct head-to-head contact or sharing personal items.
Final Thoughts
While chlorine in pool water is generally safe for swimmers, it’s important to remember that it does not kill lice. If you suspect a lice infestation, seek professional advice from a qualified lice specialist, or use Lice Sisters’s proven effective lice treatment according to the package directions.
By understanding how lice spread and taking simple precautions, you can enjoy worry-free pool days with your family. Remember, pools are fantastic places to cool off and have fun!
