The True Cost of Misdiagnosing Lice
Misdiagnosing lice happens more often than you may realize. An incorrect diagnosis, by thinking it’s just dandruff or irritation, can create a much larger problem for the person with a lice infestation, their family, and the community. Here’s how.
Spreading of Lice
If lice is misdiagnosed as something else like dandruff or skin irritation, then you are likely not receiving the proper treatment. This allows lice to run rampant on your head, and even worse possibly spread to others without realizing it.
Social Impact
Misdiagnosing lice and not catching an outbreak early can lead to a much larger problem, creating unnecessary stress for you and your child. Although lice are not a sign of a dirty scalp, the stigma around lice can create a stressful environment for your little ones.
Life Disruptions
A misdiagnosis can also lead to larger life disruptions. It’s never a good time to get lice but if a lice infestation is left untreated it will get larger and harder to get rid of. This will require more time to effectively remove and can potentially take more than one session. It can also result in your child being sent home from school based on their school’s policy.
Extra Expenses
Another major fact to consider is that misdiagnosing lice can be costly. The longer it takes to remove the infestation the more it will cost, either in your own time or at a lice removal salon. Save your money and make sure to get lice correctly diagnosed.
Misdiagnosing lice is not ideal, so how do you correctly diagnose? You are going to want to check four major areas of the head: the front of the hairline, behind the ears, the crown, and the back of the neck (the nape). Use this video here to help guide you through the process.
We also offer diagnoses through photos or videos. Simply send us a picture and one of our trained Hair Fairies will guide you in the right direction.
Welcome to the Hair Fairies blog where we share education, tips, and professional guidance on all things head lice.
