Hedrin 4% Lotion for Head Lice - 150ml
Product Summary
Hedrin® Lotion is a cutaneous solution for the treatment of head lice in adults and children aged 6 months and over.
Key Features
- Clinically proven to eradicate head lice
- Skin friendly
- Odourless
- Easy to apply
- No organophosphates
Directions
- Apply sufficient lotion evenly over dry hair, ensuring that the scalp is fully covered.
- Work into the hair, spreading the liquid evenly from the roots to tips.
- Allow the hair to dry naturally.
- Leave on the hair for at least 8 hours or overnight.
- Wash the hair with normal shampoo, rinse thoroughly with water, and dry.
It is important that Hedrin® Lotion is applied again after seven days to deal with any lice which may hatch in that time.
Failure to repeat the treatment may result in the return of a lice infestation.
Ingredients
- Active ingredient: Dimeticone 4% w/w
- Also contains Cyclomethicone 5
Warnings and Restrictions
Warning: Keep hair away from sources of ignition, especially naked flames and burning cigarettes, whilst being treated with Hedrin®. Treated hair can readily burn if ignited.
- Hedrin® solution is applied to the hair and scalp and is for external use only.
- Do not use if you are sensitive to either of the ingredients in Hedrin®.
- Do not continue using Hedrin® if a skin rash or other signs of hypersensitivity occur.
- Children under 6 months should only be treated under medical supervision.
- If this product accidentally gets into the eyes, flush with water.
- Take care if accidentally spilt, as Hedrin® may cause a slip hazard.
Storage
Keep in the original carton.
Keep out of the reach and sight of children.
Pharmacist FAQs Answered
How does Hedrin 4% Lotion kill head lice without the use of insecticides?
Hedrin works by physically covering the lice with a silicone-based substance called dimeticone. It seals off their ability to lose water, which causes dehydration and death. Unlike other lice treatments that use insecticides to poison the lice, Hedrin suffocates them. This means that lice cannot build up resistance to it, so it is an effective option even if other treatments have failed.
Can Hedrin be used on people who have allergies or sensitive skin?
Yes, Hedrin is generally fine for sensitive skin because it's free from organophosphates and harsh chemicals. However, if you have a known allergy to silicones or experience redness, itching, or a rash after using it, stop using the treatment and consult your pharmacist or doctor. As with any issue, conduct a patch test and avoid applying it to damaged skin.
Is it safe to use Hedrin more than twice if lice return?
lice, you can re-treat if lice return, but ensure that you confirm the infestation is active (there are live lice present). You are only meant to use it once and then again 7 days later as instructed. If the lice return after a few weeks, it is likely a new infestation, not a recurrence of the old one. Hedrin can be used safely again, but only as needed for active lice—do not use it daily or unnecessarily.
Does Hedrin kill lice eggs (nits), as well as the lice?
Hedrin works mainly against live lice, not the dormant eggs. This is why the second application is needed 7 days later. Any eggs that have survived the first application and hatch during this time are killed by the second dose. Missing this second application can lead to the infestation returning.
Can I use Hedrin as a regular head lice prevention treatment?
No, Hedrin should only be used to kill existing head lice infestations. It is not designed or tested for regular use as a prevention. Applying too frequently when there are no lice is unnecessary and can irritate the scalp. Use a lice comb to check your child's hair regularly, especially during epidemics at school.
Can Hedrin be used for all hair types and lengths?
Yes, Hedrin is safe and effective on straight, curly, thin, thick, short, or long hair. Those with very thick or long hair may need more product to get full scalp and root coverage. Make sure the lotion is spread evenly from the scalp to the ends, and that no areas are missed, to treat the lice effectively.
Can I go to school or work overnight after applying for Hedrin?
Yes, provided the lotion has been washed out the next morning, returning to school or work is perfectly okay. Head lice are common and not a reason for absence after initiating treatment. Let close contacts know so they can also be examined for lice—that means you can stop the spread and prevent getting infested again.