Permed and Itchy? You Might Have Lice Here’s What to Know
There’s a special kind of confidence that comes with freshly permed hair—those bouncy, defined curls or waves that transform your entire look.
But with that new ‘do comes an unexpected worry for some: Can permed hair get head lice?
It’s a question many hesitate to ask out loud, yet it’s one that deserves clarity, especially when itchy scalps and stubborn myths start circulating.
Spoiler alert: Yes!
You can get lice even if your hair is permed—but the story doesn’t end there.
The Truth Behind Lice and Permed Hair
Permed hair is chemically altered to create long-lasting curls or waves, making the hair shaft more textured and porous. Some people assume that these changes somehow repel lice or make it impossible for them to survive. Unfortunately, lice don’t care if your hair is natural, colored, or permed. They’re drawn to the scalp, not the style.
What might differ is how lice navigate different hair types. Permed hair can be slightly more difficult for lice to move through due to its texture, but that doesn’t make it a safe zone. In fact, lice are surprisingly adaptive and will do what it takes to reach the scalp—no matter what your hair has been through at the salon.
Why the Question Even Comes Up
A lot of people assume that the chemicals used in perms might deter lice. After all, if it’s strong enough to permanently curl hair, it should be strong enough to kill lice, right? Not quite. While some chemical treatments might irritate or even harm a few lice, they’re not consistent or reliable methods for lice prevention or removal. And once the perm process is done and your scalp returns to normal, it’s open season again for lice.
What’s more, using home remedies or outdated methods on permed hair can do more harm than good. Harsh treatments may damage the chemically treated strands or cause breakage. That’s why it’s essential to explore lice care solutions that are both gentle and effective.
Professional Lice Treatment for Styled Hair
If you’ve already spotted lice—or worse, nits—in your curls, don’t panic. The good news is that there are safe and effective professional lice treatment options that won’t ruin your perm. The key is to avoid DIY treatments that use high heat or untested home ingredients, and instead consult with trained lice removal experts who understand different hair types.
Many lice clinics near you offer customized treatments for textured or chemically treated hair. They use gentle yet powerful techniques to eliminate lice without compromising your style. These treatments often involve special oils and enzymatic formulas that break down the glue that holds nits to the hair shaft. And the best part? These solutions are often safe for both children and adults, even those with sensitive skin or salon-treated hair.
Where to Find Help: Lice Clinic Near Me
A quick search for a lice clinic near me can feel overwhelming, but not all clinics are created equal. The right lice professionals will offer discreet, comfortable services tailored to your needs—and that includes working with permed hair. Whether it’s a one-time visit or a full treatment plan, finding the right expert is the difference between days of stress and immediate relief.
At Lice is Simple, we partner with top clinics and care providers to offer guidance, recommend products, and connect you with the right services in your area. Because when lice show up, you need help now, not later.
The Role of the Lice Brush in Recovery
Once you’ve gone through a treatment, ongoing maintenance becomes your best friend. Using a lice brush is one of the most important follow-up steps. Designed to remove lingering nits and keep your scalp clear, a lice brush glides gently through curls without tugging or pulling.
Permed hair may require a more delicate touch, and that's why specialized lice brushes are so essential. They help you stay ahead of any infestation while keeping your textured locks intact.
Lice Care Solutions That Actually Work
When dealing with lice and permed hair, you need lice care solutions that are effective without being harsh. At Lice is Simple, we’re all about keeping things straightforward, safe, and supportive. Our recommended products and techniques are chosen with your hair health in mind, especially for those with color-treated, permed, or fragile hair types.
We understand that every head is different—and every lice situation is too. That’s why our team helps you navigate options, from professional lice treatment to post-care tools like the lice brush, ensuring your curls stay beautiful and your scalp stays lice-free.
Confidence Looks Better Without Lice
Permed hair doesn’t make you immune to lice—but it also doesn’t make lice unbeatable. With the right help, tools, and lice care solutions, you can tackle the problem head-on without losing your style. You deserve peace of mind along with your perfect curls, and that’s exactly what we’re here to give.
Visit Lice is Simple today to learn more about your options, explore trusted treatments, and get back to feeling confident in your look—lice-free and stress-free.