Best methods for getting rid of lice

As the weather gets cold and kids are wearing hats and coats, we tend to see more cases of head lice. So Consumer Reports reviewed the science on treatments and what is the best, safest way to get rid of lice.

Frantic families often turn to popular over-the-counter treatments, like RID, which contains pyrethrum, or Nix, which contains permethrin.

But Consumer Reports says mounting evidence shows these chemicals aren't the best choices.

Michael Hansen of Consumer Reports explains, "Those active ingredients tend not to work anymore because the lice have become resistant to them."

In addition to getting rid of lice, you need to get rid of eggs - known as nits.

Nix claims to do both, but how effective are its active ingredient?

Hansen says, "There's a study in the scientific literature that shows that it does kill some eggs, but actually not very many."

Nix's lawyer says the basis for its egg-killing claim "is considered proprietary and confidential" and it was approved by the FDA. But Consumer Reports' experts say the safest, most effective method to get rid of lice is to comb them out using a lubricant, like conditioner, and a fine-toothed metal comb.

As for other pesticide-free treatments, studies show those that contain low-levels of dimethicone, also known as dimeticone, may be effective at killing the bugs but you still need to comb out the eggs.

Some doctors also recommend prescription treatments, but they come with risks. And some of the newer medications have not been studied long-term.

As for prevention, teach your kids not to share brushes, combs, hats or scarves.