Not all nit removal services are created equal, so when choosing one to treat your family it’s essential that you do your homework.

Studies around the world show that lice are becoming increasingly resistant to over-the-counter lice treatment products and even prescription products. This fact, coupled with the growing trend to stop using harmful chemicals in our daily lives, has led an increasing number of parents to look for alternative products and treatment methods when their children contract these dreaded parasites.

One area that has seen tremendous growth in recent years due to these factors is the niche of professional nit removal services. These services are a lifesaver for many overwhelmed parents with little time on their hands. However, as with any company you hire, it’s critical to be an educated consumer and know what to look for.

Anyone can buy some non-toxic products and a lice comb and pretend to be a pro. So to protect yourself and your family, follow some basic guidelines when choosing a nit removal service in your area.

Find a company with the right training and education. There are no state licensing or regulatory requirements in this emerging field, so you can be hit or miss when choosing a service. Look for companies that are certified in the Shepherd Method of strand-by-strand nit removal. This is important not only for home treatment, but also for salon treatment.

This safe and proven means of treating head lice was developed at a nonprofit lice awareness and treatment center in Florida called the Lice Solutions Resource Network (LSRN). Executive Director Katie Shepherd developed this strand-by-strand method of nit removal as a safe and highly effective means of treatment. Companies trained and certified in this method are known to provide superior service and treatment to families. These companies are also up-to-date on research, as they have access to the latest lice studies in which LSRN is involved.

Another important issue to consider is security. Any time you hire someone to come to your home, there are certain issues you need to be aware of. You need to make sure that anyone you allow into your home is actually there to perform the services they were hired to do. Verifying that a business is licensed, registered and insured is the first step in protecting your family. For added peace of mind, you can also check with your local Chamber of Commerce and Better Business Bureau to see if they are featured members.

Another precaution to take is to make sure that any employees or independent contractors the company hires are properly screened. Doing extensive background checks as part of the hiring process is a good indication that you’re dealing with a reputable company that makes customer safety a priority.

Families dealing with head lice often feel overwhelmed and vulnerable. Unfortunately, some companies take advantage of this to reproduce myths that perpetuate irrational fears about infestations. In other words, they may try to sell you unnecessary products. Look what they are selling. If they have a full line of products meant to rid your home and clothes of lice, that may be a red flag. Some companies even sell hand soap to kill lice.

All of these are a complete waste of money. Anyone who is properly trained and aware of current research knows that lice in the environment pose virtually no threat of transmission. Therefore, there is no reason to focus on excessive environmental cleanup. Products that “treat” the home, because or laundry are unnecessary and a waste of time and money. Don’t hesitate to hire a company that focuses too much on environmental cleanliness and excessive bagging of items that cannot be washed.

There is a lot to think about when hiring a lice removal service to come to your home. Just because you’re stressed and short on time doesn’t mean you have to be uninformed. Take these precautions outlined above when choosing a company and you’ll be well on your way to becoming and staying lice free!