Are Mutant Super Lice Invading our Kids Heads?

For the last few weeks, the media has been saturated with articles claiming the emergence of mutant super lice! These super lice have been found to be resistant to pyrethroid, the active ingredient in most over-the-counter lice treatments. This according to new research presented at the American Chemical Society’s national meeting. (http://www.acs.org/content/acs/en/pressroom/newsreleases/2015/august/lice.html)

Author of the research study, Kyong S. Yoon, PhD (assistant professor in the Biological Sciences and Environmental Sciences Program at Southern Illinois University) has been researching lice since the early 2000’s. He reported finding pyrethroid-resistant lice in more than 25 states. Pyrethroid is a pesticide found in most over-the-counter lice treatments.

Yoon’s findings are not news, in fact the first reports of this appeared in the early 1990’s. (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/head-lice-resistant-to-over-the-counter-products-in-25- states_55d36ff1e4b0ab468d9e91f5).

CNN reports that Yoon’s research was partially funded by Sanofi, a pharmaceutical company that owns Sklice lotion, a new treatment available by prescription only (http://www.cnn.com/2015/08/18/health/mutant-lice/). Yoon goes on to recommend prescription medications be used to get rid of head lice, rather than over-the-counter treatments. Coincidence? Hmmm… As a Mother, I’m concerned that nothing natural was even discussed.

The media tells only part of the story – the scary part. I’m here to tell you the good news. Natural lice removal is possible and it’s highly effective! Our Lice Good-Bye® uses enzymes made of yeast, salt and water to help stun and dissolve a live bug and, maybe even more importantly, dissolve the glue that stick the nits to the hair shaft – making combing safe and effective. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, one of the most effective treatments against lice is a comb.
(http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/110/3/638.full.pdf%22)

As the owner of Fairy Tales, I realize I need to use my voice loudly and clearly – Natural treatments are available and they work!

And where is the discussion on lice prevention?

It is acceptable to light a citronella candle in your backyard to repel mosquitoes, but what about a small amount on your hair to prevent bugs? Isn’t this relevant news? Since the beginning of time, people have been using essential oils to cure, prevent and repel (https://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/treatment/aromatherapy). So why is it so hard to believe that essential oils such as rosemary, citronella, peppermint and tea tree can repel a tiny louse?

Rosemary Repel Hair Care is tested and clinically proven to help repel lice – plain and simple. We have to wash our kids hair anyway, right?

Today I got mad. My daughter Ava told me that I was too feisty while giving an interview. I’m ok with that – I have spoken to so many parents for so many years and they thank me. They thank me because our products work and it gives them peace of mind.

Lice are a nuisance; they are not a major health issue.Head lice are the second most common school age infection. Common Cold is #1 (Jason Yaun, MD, assistant professor of pediatrics at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) in Memphis).

We have enough to worry about as parents. I’d like to see the discussion turn – let’s talk about chemical free, safe solutions to remove lice and natural solutions to help prevent them. Let’s discuss!

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Here’s your shopping list to prevent and treat lice:

• Lice Good-Bye® Survival Kit
  The next generation of lice elimination products is here! Safe, easy, natural and clinically proven to remove lice and their eggs (nits).
• Rosemary Repel® Shampoo, Crème Conditioner & Conditioning Spray
  #1 recommended by pediatricians, school nurses and moms since 1999! Clinically proven to help prevent head lice with organic herbs and natural plant extracts.

Our Fairy Tales complete line is available at Ulta, Bed, Bath & Beyond, salons and select pharmacies and retail stores, as well as online at www.fairytaleshaircare.com.

Stay Calm & Informed,

Risa Barash, Founder & Owner