Enhance services with this pro favorite...King Research products are the unsung heroes of salon sanitation. When those tiny terrors (aka lice) come crawling into your chair, you need weapons-grade disinfection. The million-dollar question: Does that iconic blue Barbicide liquid actually annihilate lice? Let's dive into the nitty-gritty (pun absolutely intended) of lice warfare in your salon.
First things first - Barbicide is EPA-registered to kill Pediculus humanus capitis (that's fancy Latin for "head lice that ruin your day"). The standard 10-minute immersion in properly mixed solution (2 oz per gallon of water) will indeed send those little vampires to their watery grave. But here's the kicker - it only works on the tools, not the scalp! You'll still need specialized lice treatment products for the actual head.
The Lice-Killing Lowdown
Barbicide's active ingredients (alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride and ethanol) disrupt lice cell membranes like a bouncer at closing time. But timing is everything - those 10 minutes are non-negotiable. Want to level up? The King Research line includes hospital-grade disinfectants that make lice wish they'd stayed on whatever medieval peasant they came from.
Salon Lice Protocol: Beyond the Blue Juice
1. Tool Warfare: Combs, clips, and shears get the full Barbicide bath. Pro tip - use compressed sponges to scrub nooks and crannies.
2. Fabric Fortress: Toss capes and linens in a hot dryer for 30 minutes (lice hate sauna conditions).
3. Chair Combat: Wipe down surfaces with disinfectant spray - pay special attention to headrests.
4. Client Care: Have discreet lice removal recommendations ready (we're professionals, not judgmental aunts).
When Barbicide Isn't Enough
For nuclear-level infestations, consider adding professional cleaners to your arsenal. The King Research disinfectant line includes products specifically tested against parasitic insects. Remember - lice eggs (nits) are like tiny armored tanks. While Barbicide kills live lice, you'll need mechanical removal (aka fine-tooth combing) for the eggs.
The Bottom Line
Yes, Barbicide kills lice on tools when used correctly. But maintaining a lice-free salon requires a multi-pronged attack. Stock up on protective gear, educate your team, and maybe keep some calming essential oils on hand for when you spot that telltale head scratch. Your salon's reputation for cleanliness is worth its weight in gold - or at least in little blue disinfectant jars!
