Head Lice Treatment in Phoenix, AZ

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If you or your child has head lice, our dermatology specialists at Regency offer treatment for this condition.

What are head lice?

Head lice are small, parasitic insects that thrive by feeding on human blood. They are transmitted via hair-to-hair direct contact. Although the scalp is the most common site of infestations, other hair-bearing areas may be involved, including the pubic region, eyebrows, or eyelashes. Lice are particularly common among preschool and elementary school-aged children, as they are often picked up unknowingly while children play and socialize. Although lice do not transmit any diseases, they are highly contagious and can affect anyone — even if they are clean and healthy.

Symptoms

Head lice symptoms typically include scalp or genital itching. Head lice are visible to the naked eye and may be seen crawling on the scalp. The lice eggs (nits) look like tiny yellow balls attached to hair shafts.

Treatment

Treatment typically involves topical pediculicide medications, mechanical removal of nits with a fine-toothed comb, and patient education regarding eradication and re-infestation precautions. Sometimes treatment with oral medications may also be needed in severe infestation cases.