Ohio State University Extension Bulletin

Head Lice

Bulletin 893-01

Non-Prescription Insecticidal Products For Use After An Insecticidal Treatment

Trade Name
(Company)		 Active
Ingredient
and Percent
Concentration		 Type of
Product		 "Claims"a and
Additional Package
Contents
Clear® (Care Technologies, Inc.)

Clear

Enzymes
(oxidoreductase, transferase,
lyase, hydrolase, isomerase, ligase)		 Gel
  • Use together with Clear® shampoo, which contains 0.33% pyrethrum extract.
  • Use "to help prevent re-infestation."
  • Includes a short-toothed, plastic "exclusive 'nit capturing' comb."b
LiceGuard® Shampoo Lice Egg Remover
(ARR Health Technologies, Inc.)

LiceGuard

Sodium laureth sulfate Shampoo
  • Use after treating with a pyrethrin or pyrethrum product or an electronic device.
  • Helps remove eggs, but does not kill lice.
  • "Triples number of nits removed" by loosening the glue bond between nits and hair.
  • Kit includes a short-toothed, plastic "extra fine" nit comb.b
RID® (Bayer Consumer Care Division)

RID

Cabbage extract and pineapple extract Gel
  • Use together with RID® shampoo, which contains 0.33% pyrethrum extract.
  • "Helps dissolve the 'glue' that binds eggs to hair."
  • Kit includes a short-toothed, plastic "patented RID® egg removal comb."b

aBeware of any false advertising. Carefully read the label and all directions before purchasing a product. It is not necessary or advisable to apply insecticides to clothing, mattresses, or other places in the environment for head lice control.

bPlastic nit combs typically are not useful because the teeth tend to bend and spread apart and thereby bypass nits and head lice; they also tend to break easily. Short-toothed combs, whether plastic or metal, are ineffective in combing through many types of hair.

cPiperonyl butoxide included as a synergist to increase insecticidal activity.

dBe aware of potential for an allergic reaction. Immediately consult a physician if an allergic response is indicated, and avoid future use.

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