Head Lice Attraction: Debunking the Pheromone Myth

Head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis) are not attracted by human pheromones. They locate hosts via:

• Thermoreception: Detect scalp temperature (~32–35°C).
• Chemoreception: Carbon dioxide (CO₂) from respiration; volatile fatty acids, lactic acid from skin.
• Mechanoreception: Movement, hair vibration.
• Contact Transmission: Direct head-to-head contact (primary); fomites (hats, brushes, bedding) secondary.

What Does NOT Attract Lice

• Poor hygiene (lice prefer clean hair for attachment).
• Long hair (but more contact surface).
• Specific blood type.
• Pheromones/perfumes.

Prevention

• Avoid head-to-head contact.
• Don't share combs, hats, helmets, towels.
• Regular wet-combing checks (fine-tooth nit comb) in children.
• Environmental: wash bedding/clothing in hot water (>55°C); vacuum furniture.

Treatment: Permethrin 1%, pyrethrins, dimethicone, spinosad, ivermectin (oral). Resistance common; rotate classes. Treat all infested contacts simultaneously.