Lice are tiny parasites that can be found on the head and scalp of humans. They are a common problem, but one group of people seems immune to them: black people. Why is this? It turns out that the answer has nothing to do with race but instead with hair type!
Why Can’t Black People Get Lice?
It’s a question that has stumped scientists for years: why can’t black people get lice? There are several theories out there, but the most likely explanation is that lice don’t like the taste of black hair. That’s right – lice prefer blondes! So if you’re you’re ever feeling down about being pestered by these little critters, remember that it could be a lot worse – you could be a blonde!
The simple answer is that their hair is too curly and tight for the lice to attach themselves to. But there’s a little more to it than that. Lice can attach themselves to hair because of “van der Waals forces.” These are the weak electrostatic interactions between molecules. They allow the lice to “stick” to hair. Now, van der Waals forces are weaker on curly hair than on straight hair. The curls provide a barrier that makes attaching the lice harder.
Remedies For Lice For Normal Hair
- Wash hair with a lice shampoo: You can buy these over the counter at any drug store. Be sure to follow the instructions on the bottle.
- Comb hair with a fine-toothed comb as this will help remove any lice or eggs from your hair.
- Repeat the above two steps every few days before you notice that the lice are all gone.
Care Routine For Black Hair
Black hair is unique and requires special care to stay healthy and look at its best. Here are some tips for caring for black hair:
- Wash your hair with a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo to avoid stripping away natural oils.
- Conditioner is essential to hydrate and detangle hair.
- Be sure to use a heat protectant before using any heat styling tools.
- Limit the use of harsh chemicals such as relaxers.
- Deep condition your hair regularly to keep it healthy and hydrated.
- Wrap your hair before bed to protect it from damage and breakage.
- Gently detangle your hair with a wide-toothed comb to avoid damaging it.
- Be mindful of the products you use in your hair, as some can cause build-up.
Other Interesting Facts About Black Hair
The average black woman spends about $80,000 on her hair. In the United States, the black hair industry is worth about $77 billion. And yet, despite all of this money and attention, black hair is often misunderstood. It is the fastest-growing hair type, but it also breaks the most easily.
One common misconception is that black people cannot get lice. It is not valid! Black people can get lice just like anyone else. The reason why this myth exists is that lice are more visible in lighter hair. Lice are translucent, so they blend in better with darker hair.
So if you’re a black person and you think you might have lice, don’t worry! You can get rid of them just like anyone else. Just be sure to use a lice comb and shampoo specifically designed for black hair.
The Final Verdict
Though lice may be a nuisance to some, they are not choosy when it comes to their hosts. Anyone can get lice, regardless of race or ethnicity. In fact, according to the National Pediculosis Association, “people of color are less likely to get head lice than those with lighter hair colors.” So if you find yourself (or your child) battling an infestation of these pesky critters, know that you are not alone, and there is no shame in seeking treatment.