Halloween Season Means an Increase in Lice for One Simple Reason
Now, this is scary.
Halloween time sees an increase in pumpkins on the front porch, candy consumption and debate about whether candy corn is delicious or not, but it also means there will be a jump in head lice, reports WTOL in Toledo, Ohio.
Why is that? Well, it may stem from people shopping for the perfect Halloween costume. "We have a lot of people going into stores right now, trying on masks, trying on costumes and trying on wigs," said pediatric nurse practitioner Cherie Sexton. "And a lot of people don't give much thought into the fact that several people could've tried it on before them."
Yeah, you may love that Pennywise mask, but you may not love the fact that a dozen people tried it on and put it back on the shelf before you.
There are things you can do to prevent the lice from taking over your life, though. According to WTOL:
Put your costume or wig in a sealed plastic bag for 48 hours before wearing it. Any head lice will die within 24-48 hours."
Throw dryer friendly items in the dryer on high heat for 45 minutes before wearing them."
Wear a swim or wig cap to cover yours or your child's hair to create a barrier that will be tough for lice to cross."
The chances of an infestation run for up to seven days, too, so make sure you buy your get-up before October 24 or else instead of itching to win best costume at your office party you'll just be itching.