Electronic Head Lice Removal

A lice infestation can make life a living nightmare for the entire family. Lice shampoos contain pesticides, which many parents try to avoid, but the shampoos are the most widely available remedy for these parasites. Electronic lice-killing combs have gained popularity in recent years in response to parental concerns, but they, too come with their fair share of concerns.

How it Works

Electronic lice removal involves using a metal comb with a battery installed. The user combs their hair slowly, in small sections. When the electric comb comes in contact with a louse, it electrocutes the bug. The user must then clean the dead bugs out of the comb.

History

The most popular of the lice combs, the Robi Comb, was invented in Israel in 1991. In initial testing, it was proven to be as effective as the leading ingredient in most lice shampoos, permethrin. The comb sold in several European countries for several years before releasing in the United States in 1998.

Robi Comb's nearest competitor, the MagiComb, advertises itself as "21st Century Technology," so it is relatively new to the marketplace. Both combs can be purchased online, and the Robi Comb is available at most chain pharmacies, such as Walgreens and CVS.

Robi Comb vs. MagiComb

The Robi Comb has a small design that must be assembled and disassembled each time the comb is used. It electrocutes the louse, then makes a sound to alert the user to clean the dead louse out of the comb's teeth. The comb only works with dry hair, and will not run at all if the comb is wet. Between users, the comb is sanitized with rubbing alcohol.

The MagiComb is bigger than the Robi Comb, and features a hairbrush-like handle. It can be used on wet hair, and does not require the user to clean the teeth after each bug electrocution, but rather at the end of the 15-20 minute combing session.

Considerations

Electronic combs do not kill "nits," the eggs lice lay on hair follicles; thus, the combs must be used once a day for at least 10-12 days. Like any comb, these combs can tangle in the hair, causing pain when the tangle is removed. Nit removal gels (sold in the same aisle as lice shampoo) can aid in removing both live and dead nits.

The combs must be sanitized between users. Cleaning with rubbing alcohol is recommended, though Robi Cob's guide states it is permissible to use germicide if the comb is being used in high-capacity situations, such as by a school nurse.