Lice Myths Debunked: What Actually Causes Lice?

Hair Wizards
Jul 27
3 min read

Let’s be honest—just hearing the word lice makes most parents squirm. The moment a school nurse sends that dreaded notice home, the panic begins. But before you start boiling all your bedding and blaming your kid for not shampooing enough, let’s set the record straight.

Lice have been around forever, and unfortunately, so have the myths about how they spread. At Hair Wizards Salon, we’ve seen it all—and we’re here to clear the air with facts, not fear. Here’s what you really need to know about lice care, how they spread, and how to protect your family without falling for the most common misconceptions.

Myth #1: Only people with poor hygiene get lice.

Truth: Lice don’t care how clean your hair is—they’re after blood, not dirt. Whether your hair is freshly washed or not, it makes no difference. Getting lice has nothing to do with how clean you are.

If your child comes home with lice, don’t feel embarrassed. It’s a medical issue, not a moral one. What you can do is seek out safe and effective lice treatment in Encino right away.

Myth #2: Lice Can Jump or Fly

Truth: They can’t. Lice don’t fly or jump—they don’t have wings, and they’re not like fleas. They get around by crawling slowly from one head to another, usually through close contact. That’s why they often spread in places like schools, sleepovers, camps, or during sports.

That’s why lice prevention is more about managing contact than fumigating your house. Educating your child on avoiding hair sharing and close head contact is far more useful than spraying the sofa.

Myth #3: Lice Spread Through Pets or Furniture

Truth: Lice live and thrive only on human scalps. They can’t survive on your dog, cat, or your favorite beanbag chair for long. That said, lice can live briefly on items like hats, pillows, or hairbrushes.

A thorough cleaning is helpful—but there’s no need to go overboard. Put your efforts into effective lice treatment and doing daily head checks instead.

Myth #4: Over-the-Counter Treatments Are Always Effective

Truth: Many drugstore lice products use harsh pesticides that lice have grown resistant to—and they often don’t kill eggs (nits). This means infestations can return just days later.

That’s why many families are switching to non-toxic lice treatment and enzyme lice treatment options. These methods are gentler on kids and more effective at targeting both lice and nits.

So, What Actually Causes Lice?

Simply put: direct head-to-head contact. It’s most common in schools, daycares, and among siblings. You don’t need to live in fear, but a little education goes a long way.

At Hair Wizards Salon, our team provides professional, chemical-free lice removal services in Encino that are safe for children and adults alike. We also offer lice screening and lice prevention advice to help families stay lice-free year-round.

Why Choose a Local Lice Clinic in Encino?

When dealing with lice, convenience and expertise matter. Our local lice treatment options are designed to give you peace of mind without having to second-guess the process. Our staff specializes in professional lice removal and educates families every step of the way.

Looking for places that treat lice in Encino or the top-rated lice clinic in Encino? You’re already in the right place.

Take Action with Hair Wizards Salon

Dealing with lice doesn’t have to feel overwhelming or shameful. Our mission is to make the process as stress-free, effective, and safe as possible. Check out our products for home care, read through our FAQ, or request an appointment today.