RobiComb - the Coolest Reason to Have Lice
Created | Updated Dec 20, 2005
The RobiComb may be one of the neatest inventions known to man - especially for anyone suffering from pediculosis. Simply put, it's a comb that detects and electrocutes lice. How cool is that?
What is a RobiComb?
A RobiComb is a small (small meaning about 6cm square and 2cm thick), hand-held device that more or less looks like a comb attached to a battery pack. Which is basically what it is, running on a single AA battery. When turned on, it makes a low humming noise. As you're combing the RobiComb through your hair, the humming will suddenly stop if a louse is detected. When the humming stops, an electrical current passes through the comb and the louse is electrocuted. The current does not damage hair, and provides only a small buzz if you should happen to be silly enough to hold the teeth of the comb between wet fingers. When you've finished combing through the hair, you use a fine-toothed comb to rid your hair of any dead lice.
Does it Really Work?
Yes. Medical studies have shown the RobiComb to be about as effective as permethrin, the most commonly used pediculocide1.
Why Use a RobiComb?
There are a variety of reasons to use a RobiComb:
The RobiComb detects lice, so it can also be used for screening as well as treatment. This makes it a fun toy to take to the office, where you can find out which of your co-workers have lice.
The RobiComb is a non-chemical alternative for those of you squeamish about dumping pesticides on your child's head. As a result, it doesn't have the same potential for harmful side effects.
Unlike pediculocides, the RobiComb can be safely used to prevent lice infestations by using on a weekly basis to kill lice before they have a chance to propagate.
While lice can become resistant to most pediculocides, they can never become resistant to the RobiComb.
The RobiComb can be used over and over again, on any number of lice-infested children.
Lice, Lice and Damned Lice
The following is a disclaimer... oh, keep your hair on - nobody's trying to spoil your fun here. It's just that it's wise to point out that some folk are a bit dubious about the device's overall effectiveness and that some kids find the buzzing zapping sound distressing. We therefore suggest you do a bit of your own research first, that you look through any bumf or information on the web with a fine... RobiComb (sorry) before making any purchases.