Lice Screenings & Treatment for Philadelphia-Area Schools & Camps

Lice Happens partners with schools, daycares, and summer camps across Greater Philadelphia to provide on-site lice screening and treatment. Whether you are responding to an active outbreak, running routine head checks before camp opens, or preparing for back-to-school season, our certified specialists handle it discreetly and without disrupting your day.

Our school and camp services include:

• Full-class or full-camp screenings to identify active cases quickly and discreetly, with the goal of keeping everyone safe and lice-free, rather than embarrassing any child
• On-site treatment for confirmed cases, so children do not need to be sent home mid-day
• Education for staff, parents, and students on how to spot lice early and prevent re-infestation
• Discreet communication and documentation that keeps families informed without spreading stigma

Lice Happens was founded by a registered nurse with years of experience as a school nurse, so we understand how to balance thorough treatment with the realities of a busy classroom or camp. We work alongside administrators and staff to keep things calm, organized, and focused on getting kids back to their day.

To schedule a screening or set up a service agreement, call our LiceLine at 610.952.3691 or email emily@licehappens.com. We will build a plan that fits your schedule and your community.

Lice Treatment FAQs

Here are some of the questions we hear most from Philadelphia families.

How much does professional lice removal cost in Philadelphia, PA?

Pricing depends on your family size, hair length and density, and how severe the infestation is. Call our LiceLine for an accurate estimate before you schedule. We keep pricing straightforward, with no bait and switch.

Will insurance cover lice removal treatment?

Most standard health insurance plans do not directly cover professional lice removal. The cost is usually an eligible expense under an HSA/FSA, so you may be able to pay with pre-tax dollars. Check with your HSA or FSA administrator to confirm before your appointment.

How long does professional lice treatment take?

Most in-home visits run one to a few hours, depending on how many people need screening and the length and thickness of their hair. We work through each head carefully rather than rushing, because a complete comb-out is what clears the infestation.

How long until head lice are fully gone?

Active crawling lice come off during your visit, and the infestation breaks once every louse and nit is removed by hand. We screen for and lift any newly hatched nymphs, then send you home with follow-up treatment steps to catch stragglers and confirm your family stays lice-free.

What kills head lice most effectively?

A meticulous manual comb-out with a professional metal lice comb works far better than any spray or shampoo alone. Many lice populations now resist common over-the-counter ingredients such as pyrethrins and permethrin, which is how super lice spread and why infestations keep coming back. Manual removal breaks the lice life cycle in one visit, without harsh chemicals.

Can head lice live on pillows?

Not for long. Head lice are parasitic insects that depend on the warmth and food of a human scalp, and they typically die within a day or two off a head. Washing pillowcases and recently worn bedding in your usual detergent at a temperature suited to the fabric is plenty. There is no need to bag up the house.

How did I get lice all of a sudden?

Head lice spread mainly through head-to-head contact, which is why they move so fast among kids at school, sleepovers, and sports. You will often notice itching first, then spot tiny lice eggs glued near the scalp or crawling lice and adult lice in the hair. Head lice live only on the scalp and differ from pubic lice. A quick head check on every family member is the best way to know who needs treatment.