LOS ANGELES
A resistant strain of “super lice” has the Food and Drug Administration calling for better treatments for head lice, despite a number of already-approved prescription and over-the-counter treatments in the US.
“We started our company in the 90’s with a commitment to non-toxic, plant based products, and have never looked back,” said Maria Botham, owner and CEO of Hair Fairies. “Not only do our products work well, they are safe, unlike many of the OTC medications that are toxic and still don’t work. We’re pleased to see the FDA underscoring the importance of safer alternatives. ”
Super Lice
The FDA says it wants to encourage the development of new treatments in light of increasing resistance to commonly used treatments such as lindane and pyrethroids. Two new strains of lice have developed gene mutations that make them resistant to these chemicals in common over-the-counter products.
“We use essential oils that lice hate, such as extracts of Aloe Vera, Arnica, Chamomile, Cucumber, Linden, Marshmallow Root, Rose Hips, Fennel and Clary Sage. These are proven time and time again, to be not only safe, but also highly effective in treating head lice and eggs and preventing their return,” said Botham.
Dangerous Treatment
The FDA guidelines warn drug sponsors to look out for both local and systemic safety issues, and monitor for known complications including neurotoxicity, neonatal toxicity and inhibition of acetylcholinesterase. More than 70 percent of people admit to over and misuse, which could result in side effects such as skin rashes, asthma-like symptoms, and respiratory reactions like rhinitis, swelling of the mouth and larynx, coughing and wheezing.
About Hair Fairies
Hair Fairies™ , established in 1999, is headquartered in Los Angeles, with salons in Seattle, Portland, Burlingame, Washington, Chicago, Connecticut, Dallas, New York, San Francisco and San Diego. They also have a Mobile Care Head Lice Treatment. Hair Fairies products are 100 percent natural, non-toxic and plant-based. They are made in small batches to keep the ingredients fresh and are manufactured using eco-conscious packaging. The company offers free educational information and free screenings; treatment may be reimbursable by medical insurance. Hair Fairies also created a nonprofit entity, Pediatric Scalp Care Specialists, which provides free services to underserved families, along with education for parents, school administrators, physicians and the public about head lice.
Media Contacts:
Nick Winkleblack, Ox Media, nick@oxmedia.io, 503-207-9027
Nancy Romero, Hair Fairies, nromero@hairfairies.com