Age labeling varies by product: some anti-lice shampoos and kits are labeled for children 1 year and older, others for 2 years and up, and at least one prevention product lists suggested use for children 6 years and older.
Most items are liquid shampoos; some kits also include spray formulations. Several treatments and kits include a fine-tooth lice-removal comb as an accessory.
Treatment products are formulated to kill lice and eggs and to cleanse hair for an active infestation. Prevention products—such as leave-in sprays or daily repellent shampoos—are intended to defend against or repel lice and are not designed to eliminate an existing infestation.
Common warnings include age restrictions (for example, not for children under 2 or labeled for 1+), instructions to keep out of reach of children, and cautions that the product may irritate the eyes. Individual products may list additional precautions.
Frequently included essential oils are rosemary, citronella, tea tree, geranium, peppermint and lemongrass. Other listed natural extracts and ingredients include jojoba, chamomile, lavender, keratin and aloe.
Beyond lice control, some products advertise hydrating, moisturizing and soothing the scalp; others promote conditioning, detangling, strengthening or moisturizing hair. A few specifically mention helping reduce itching, flaking and dandruff-related scalp symptoms.
