Lice are tiny parasitic insects that can live on the skin and in the hair of humans. Getting rid of lice can be challenging, but there are some natural methods that may help prevent and treat lice without using harsh chemicals.
Essential Oils
Some essential oils have insecticidal properties that can repel or kill lice. The most commonly used essential oils for treating lice include:
- Tea tree oil – contains terpinen-4-ol that can kill lice and lice eggs
- Lavender oil – repels lice and soothes irritation
- Rosemary oil – inhibits acetylcholinesterase in lice
- Peppermint oil – contains menthol that disrupts lice nervous systems
- Clove oil – contains eugenol that is toxic to lice
- Ylang ylang oil – repels lice due to its strong aroma
These essential oils can be diluted and applied directly to the scalp and hair. Many natural lice treatments contain a combination of essential oils for added effectiveness.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is one of the most researched and recommended natural treatments for head lice. The terpinen-4-ol compound found in tea tree oil kills lice and lice eggs by dissolving the waxy exoskeleton of lice. Tea tree oil shampoos, rinses, and sprays can be used to treat active lice infestations. Using a few drops of undiluted tea tree oil on the scalp has also been shown to be effective in getting rid of head lice.
Apple Cider Vinegar
The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar may help kill adult head lice and lice eggs. Apple cider vinegar can be applied directly to the scalp and hair, left to sit for 30 minutes, and then rinsed out. It changes the pH on the scalp, making it harder for lice to thrive. The vinegar smell also repels lice. Some lice treatment shampoos contain apple cider vinegar as an active ingredient.
Salt
Applying salt directly to the scalp and hair may help get rid of lice by dehydrating the lice and damaging their exoskeleton. Salt also has abrasive properties that can physically remove lice. Make a spray by dissolving 1 cup of salt in 1 liter of water and apply it to dry hair. Cover with a shower cap for an hour before shampooing and combing out lice and nits.
Dimethicone-Based Products
Dimethicone lotions and shampoos work by coating the lice exoskeleton, causing them to dehydrate and die. Products like NYDA contain dimethicone as the active ingredient. Apply thoroughly to the scalp and hair and leave on for at least 8 hours before rinsing out. Dimethicone products are very effective when applied properly.
Nit Combing
Frequently combing the hair with a fine-toothed nit comb can mechanically remove head lice and eggs. This method requires diligence and patience. Use a nit comb on wet, conditioned hair starting from the scalp and working out to the ends. Wipe the comb on a paper towel after each stroke and check for lice. Comb the entire head in sections until no more lice are found.
Heat Treatment
Heating the hair with a blow dryer may help get rid of head lice. The high heat can dehydrate and kill lice. Use a handheld blow dryer to apply heat directly to each section of hair for 30 minutes, keeping the heat about 6 inches from the scalp. Be careful not to burn the scalp. The heat method works best when combined with combing.
Hair Conditioner
Applying regular hair conditioner before combing may stun the lice and make it easier to mechanically remove them. Coat dry hair with conditioner, cover with a shower cap for 15 minutes, and then comb thoroughly with a nit comb. The conditioner prevents lice from moving quickly, allowing for easier combing.
Natural Deterrent Sprays
Making your own lice prevention spray with natural ingredients can help deter lice from infesting hair. Try mixing 5-10 drops of any combination of essential oils like tea tree, lavender, peppermint, or rosemary into 1 cup of water or apple cider vinegar. Spritz this mix throughout the hair and scalp daily.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil applied thoroughly to the hair and scalp can help suffocate lice. The thick oil coats the lice, preventing them from moving around freely and breathing properly. Leave coconut oil on overnight with a shower cap. Comb through the hair with a nit comb the next morning to remove lice.
Olive Oil
Like coconut oil, olive oil can also be used to coat the hair shafts to smother lice. Apply olive oil liberally from roots to ends, put on a shower cap, and leave on for at least 8 hours before combing and washing out. The oil kills lice by asphyxiation.
Alcohol-Based Sprays
Isopropyl alcohol can kill head lice by dissolving the waxy coating on their exoskeleton, causing dehydration. Make a spray by mixing equal parts isopropyl alcohol and water. Apply thoroughly to dry hair until saturated. Let sit for 30 minutes with a shower cap before rinsing out.
Enzymatic Sprays
Enzyme-based pediculicides are non-toxic lice sprays made from coconut oil and enzyme extracts from fermented corn. They work by digesting the exoskeleton and allowing the lice to be combed out. Leave the spray on for 10 minutes before combing out lice. Repeat every few days until no live lice are found.
Herbal Rinses
Certain herbs have anti-lice properties when applied to the scalp and hair. Try making a strong herbal tea using herbs like eucalyptus, rosemary, peppermint, or sage. Let the tea cool and use it as a final rinse after shampooing. The rinse can repel and potentially kill any remaining lice.
Nit-Free Spray
This natural spray can help loosen the “glue” that adheres lice eggs to the hair shafts, making the nits easier to comb out. Mix 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar with 10 drops each of tea tree and lemon essential oils and 2 cups water. Spray liberally on damp hair, wait 10 minutes, and comb out the loosened nits.
Prevention Tips
Here are some tips for preventing lice infestations:
- Avoid head-to-head contact with anyone who has lice
- Do not share brushes, combs, hats, helmets or other personal items
- Check children’s hair frequently for signs of lice
- Keep long hair tied up or braided
- Use a natural repellent spray daily
- Soak combs and brushes in hot water after use
- Vacuum carpets, pillows, couches and beds regularly
Conclusion
While lice can be difficult to get rid of, there are many natural options that can be effective alternatives to conventional lice treatments. Essential oils, apple cider vinegar, hair conditioner, and dimethicone products can kill and remove lice when applied properly. Nit combing, heat, olive or coconut oil, and enzyme sprays also help eliminate lice from hair. Combining these natural treatments with diligent combing and prevention methods can help keep lice at bay.