The back-to-school season is kicking off across the country, and that means families everywhere are checking off their to-do lists: buying school supplies, picking out the perfect first-day outfit, and figuring out new routines. It's an exciting (and sometimes chaotic) time of year filled with anticipation, preparation, and a whole lot of list-making.

But there’s one important item that often slips through the cracks and only gets attention once it becomes a problem: head lice.

As kids return to classrooms, buses, locker rooms, and after-school hangouts, lice outbreaks become increasingly common. These tiny pests thrive in close-contact environments, making schools a hotspot for sudden infestations. And once lice find their way into your home, they’re not easy to get rid of—unless you’re prepared.

That’s where My Hair Helpers comes in. We’ve created the ultimate back-to-school lice checklist to help parents dodge infestations, catch them early, and manage them effectively if needed. With the right tools and a proactive plan, your child can start the school year confident and completely itch-free.

Let’s dive in.

Before School Starts

Do a Pre-School Lice Check

Before your child heads back to school, take a few minutes to perform a thorough head check. Using a lice comb, inspect the scalp, paying close attention to areas behind the ears and at the nape of the neck, where lice and their eggs (nits) tend to hide. It's possible your child may have picked up lice over the summer from camp, sports, sleepovers, or family gatherings, so catching it early means you can address it promptly.

Stock Up on Lice Defense Products

Make sure you have lice defense essentials on hand:

• Mint spray (with natural oils like peppermint or tea tree)
• Fine-toothed metal lice comb
• Lice shampoo (just in case!)
• Detangling spray for daily combing

Educate Your Child

Let them know not to share hats, hairbrushes, pillows, or headphones. While lice don’t live on these surfaces for long, they can still spread in a school environment if one or more children have an active case of lice. Teach your child to keep their belongings in their backpack or cubby to minimize contact.

Choose Lice-Smart Hairstyles

Keep long hair tied up in braids, buns, or ponytails. Tighter styles make it harder for lice to transfer from one head to another. And of course, always give your child’s hairstyle a few quick spritzes of our Mint Spray to keep lice away! 

During the School Year

Establish a Weekly Lice Check Routine

Make a quick scalp inspection part of your weekly routine, preferably after your child’s bath or shower. Here at My Hair Helpers, we always like to say, “Once a week, take a peek!” Early detection can stop an infestation before it spreads.

Wash and Rotate Backpacks, Jackets, and Bedding

Lice can’t survive long off the human scalp, but it’s smart to regularly wash items that come into close contact with your child’s head. To get rid of lice and nits, the water should be at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit. Items that cannot be washed can be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks. 

Use Lice Defense Products

Before your child heads out to school or sports practice, give their hair a quick mist with our refreshing Mint Spray. For ongoing protection, incorporate our Mint Shampoo and Conditioner into their regular routine. Gentle enough for daily use and infused with a pleasant mint scent, these products create a scalp environment that lice simply don’t like, making them a simple, effective defense all year long.

Stay Informed

If your school notifies you of a lice outbreak, don’t panic. Check your child’s head right away and increase defensive measures for a few weeks. Remember, lice are not dangerous and do not carry disease. 

If You Find Lice

Don’t Wait—Address Immediately

Use a safe and effective lice product that kills both lice and their eggs. Follow up with thorough combing every day for 7–10 days. Also check others in the household for signs of lice. You only need to use products on those who are affected. 

Clean Hairbrushes, Bedding, and Clothing

Wash all hair accessories, bedding, and recently worn clothes in hot water and dry on high heat. Vacuum carpets and upholstery to catch any stray lice. No need to go crazy with this step though—lice only live about a day or two without a host. 

Call in the Pros if Needed

If the infestation is stubborn or you’re unsure what to do, contact My Hair Helpers. We offer professional lice services in our six salons and can guide you through every step.

Start the Year with Confidence

Head lice may be common, but with a little preparation and a consistent routine, you can help your child stay lice-free all school year long. At My Hair Helpers, we offer trusted products and expert support for every stage—from prevention to removal. Shop our lice defense kits and louse products today! 

My Hair Helpers has 6 convenient locations to serve your needs: Thousand Oaks, Lawndale, Riverside, Downey, Pasadena, and our new lice salon in Costa Mesa, opening in August 2025. Book your appointment today!