Can fleas live on hair? That is a horrifying and embarrassing thought, but is that even possible? In this article, we will find out if fleas can live in human hair and what to you about it.
No one wants fleas in their home, and it has been terrible to think about having them in our hair. These tiny, blood-sucking creatures are a nuisance. They suck blood preferably from warm-blooded mammals and can spread diseases.
Can fleas live in hair?
Now, back to that horrifying question, how possible is it for fleas to live in human hair. According to the experts, fleas cannot live in human hair for obvious reasons. Fleas do not have the body parts for movements through hair. Besides, our hairs are not like the furs of cats or dogs. Therefore, fleas will never preferably stay in human hair, but it can happen. This occurs when the infestation is severe, and they cannot find access to their preferred host.
It is equally possible to have flea eggs and larva resulting from a severe flea infestation. If you suspect fleas in your hair, then you have to take action immediately to get rid of them.
How to get rid of fleas in human hair
Step 1 – Treating your hair
- Make a paste of 2/3 baking soda to 1/3 water and massage into your hair. Leave the mixture in for about 20 minutes. Afterwards, rinse off with warm water
- You can also use regular shampoo wash to eliminate fleas, but you should have someone do the washing for you.
- Substitute your regular shampoo for a shampoo with tea tree oil or eucalyptus oil to kill fleas and repel future infestations.
Step 2 – Wash your items
Getting rid of fleas in your hair is only valid if you make sure they do not return. Therefore, you need to spring clean your beddings, carpets, furniture, and every other thing you own. For washable items, wash at the highest possible temperature. For other items, you can dry at the highest possible heat temperature.
Step 3 – Treat your pets
If you are dealing with a flea infestation, chances are your pets have over 5% of the flea population in your home entrenched in their furs. Talk to your vet about the best flea treatment for your pets and use it judiciously. You may also have to use flea-repelling treatments to prevent them from returning.
Step 4 – Clean your home
Now, get rid of fleas from the rest of your home. Call the pest control professionals to help you pick the right flea treatment for your home. Always go for the non-toxic methods, especially if you have kids and pets and cannot afford to live your home for a long time during the treatment process.
Wrapping up
Can fleas live on hair? Sure, they can, but the possibility is rare. Fleas may likely live in human hair if the infestation is extremely severe. Therefore, deal with fleas as soon as you suspect them to prevent the occurrence.