I understand your frustration and concern about using strong chemicals on your child's scalp. Lice infestations can indeed be very challenging to handle, especially when trying to avoid traditional treatments that might be harmful. Here are a few methods that many people have found effective:
Wet Combing: This method involves wetting the hair and using a fine-toothed nit comb to remove the lice and their eggs (nits). It's usually done every three to four days for several weeks to ensure all lice and nits are removed.
Essential Oils: Some essential oils have properties that repel lice and can be used as preventive measures. Examples include tea tree oil, lavender oil, and peppermint oil. However, ensure they're diluted properly and do a patch test first, as they can be strong and potentially irritate the skin.
Oil Treatment: As you mentioned, soaking the head with oil (like olive oil or coconut oil) can suffocate the lice. After applying the oil, you can leave it on for several hours (or overnight with a shower cap) and then comb out the dead lice.
Vinegar: Some believe that a mixture of vinegar and water can help to loosen the glue that holds nits to the hair, making them easier to comb out. However, it's worth noting that this method doesn't kill lice, so combining it with other methods is advisable.
Over-the-counter treatments: There are newer, non-toxic treatments available that don't contain traditional pesticides. They might be a safer option if you're looking for something more potent than home remedies.
Professional Lice Removal Services: There are professional lice removal clinics, like NitPickyUSA, that offer services to eliminate lice without the use of harmful chemicals. They often employ natural methods combined with thorough combing using specialized tools.
https://www.nitpickyusa.com/top-rated-lice-removal-near-me
Shaving the head is indeed a surefire way to get rid of lice, but it's a drastic measure that might not be necessary unless the infestation is exceptionally severe or persistent.
Lastly, it's essential to remember that lice can survive for a day or two off the scalp. Ensure you wash all beddings, clothes, and personal items in hot water, vacuum your home, and seal non-washable items in plastic bags for a couple of weeks to prevent re-infestation.
Stay strong, and with persistence and consistency, you'll get through this!