There is a saying that black people can not get lice, is it true? It is true that African American rarely get lice in their hair. However, anyone can get lice in their hair. So, the question is, why black people rarely get lice in their hair?
Can Black People Get Lice In Their Hair
Anyone, any race people, can get lice in their hair, but it is true it black people uncommonly get lice. Lice is a tiny, swingless inset and feed on blood, parasitizes on human scalp and hair. Anyone can fulfill the living condition of lice except some people with bald head.
Why Black People Rarely Get Lice In Their Hair
It is true that African American rarely get lice in their hair. The lice of North America has adapted to live on scalps with straight hair and have claws that more easily grip onto uncoiled hair. Since black people usually have coarse, textured, coily, 4C hair, so they rarely get head lice in their hair.
It is important to note that because of the unique texture of African hair, it can be more difficult to see the lice and nits (lice eggs) on the scalp and hair shafts.
What hair type is more susceptible to lice
Lice do not discriminate based on hair type and can infest anyone, regardless of their hair type. However, some studies suggest that people with straight or wavy hair may be more susceptible to lice infestations than those with curly or kinky hair. This is because straight and wavy hair may be easier for lice to cling to and move along, while curly and kinky hair may be more difficult for lice to navigate.
How do head lice spread
Head lice are highly contagious and can be spread easily. They mainly spread by direct contact with infected person's hair or belongs. Because lice can not jump or fly, they spread through direct head-to-head contact, physical contact, and sharing of combs, hats, clothes, and other items with a person who already has head lice.
Head lice are more easily to spread at unhygienic or crowded living conditions. It is crucial that everyone take precautions to stop and treat lice infestations, including refraining from sharing personal things and regularly cleaning hair and bedding.
How to get rid of lice in African American hair?
The treatment for lice in African American textured hair is not much difference with any other hair type. However, it's important to note that because of the unique texture of African American hair, it can be more difficult to see the lice and nits (lice eggs) on the scalp and hair shafts.
1. Wash hair and clothing: The low frequency of clothes changing and hair washing are the main factors why people get infected of lice. To get rid of lice, we need to change our clothes, and wash hair regularly and frequently.
2. Use a specialized lice comb: Purchase a fine-toothed lice comb specifically designed for removing lice and nits from hair. You can find these combs at most drug stores or online.
3. Apply a lice treatment product: There are several over-the-counter lice treatment products available that contain insecticides such as pyrethrin or permethrin. These products should be applied to dry hair and left on for the recommended amount of time, usually between 10-30 minutes, depending on the product. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully.
4. Prevent re-infestation: To prevent re-infestation, avoid sharing personal items such as combs, brushes, hats, and hair accessories, and encourage family members and close contacts to check for lice and nits and treat them if necessary.
In conclusion, black people can get lice in their hair just as they can live in any other type of hair. And because of the unique texture of African American hair, it can be more difficult to see the lice on the scalp and hair shafts. Combing out the lice and nits from the hair, and apply some lice treatment products. With proper treatment, lice can be eliminated from African American hair.
