Rise of the super lice

Lice experts are getting more and more frustrated calls from parents these days.

A new generation of lice has emerged that is resistant to traditional medicated shampoos.

"They have been exposed to the over-the-counter products for years and years and years, and have mutated, and become resistant," said Shawnda Walker, owner of a Toronto-based lice removal company.

Walker said there are still ways of removing the pests, even without the shampoos.

Using a professional lice comb will remove nits — or lice eggs — from hair. Walker said it can be time-consuming, monotonous work for parents, but it's the best way to get rid of lice.

"The key to getting rid of lice is getting it all out of the hair," she said. "At home, you would probably be combing for about an hour for the first two or three days, and then you would be combing 15 to 20 minutes a day after that."

Smothering adult lice with conditioner or olive oil will help children with itchy heads, but won't get rid of eggs, Walker added.

While children scratching their heads is an obvious tell-tale sign of lice, Walker said sudden irritability with children in the morning can also be a good indicator.

"Lice are nocturnal, so they're active at night," she said. "Kids are coming out of REM sleep, and itching their head during the night, therefore getting a lousy night's sleep.

Walker also advises that girls wear their hair in braids or in a bun when lice are around. She said hair often acts as a bridge for lice to cross over from person to person, and tying back long hair is always a good idea.