How to get rid of head lice naturally
Head lice are every parent's nightmare and, without a doubt, one of the most unwelcome visitors. These minuscule creatures can turn our world upside down, causing endless itching, discomfort, and, let's face it, social embarrassment. But the good news is, there’s a natural way to get rid of these persistent pests and keep them from coming back.
What are head lice?
Head lice are small, parasitic insects that live on the human scalp, feeding on blood. [1] Adult lice are about the size of a sesame seed, measuring approximately 3mm in length. They cause itching and discomfort but are not dangerous.
How do you get head lice?
Head lice spread through close contact with someone who has them. They can crawl from one person’s hair to another during activities like hugging, playing, or sharing personal items such as hats, combs, pillows, or headphones. Since lice don’t jump or fly, direct head-to-head contact is the most common way they spread. [2]
How to get rid of head lice naturally?
Head lice can’t stand Tea Tree Oil! This natural remedy not only helps get rid of lice but also keeps them away. When applied to the scalp and hair, Tea Tree Oil kills lice in their nymph and adult stages, disrupting their life cycle. Plus, its soothing properties help relieve the itching and irritation caused by lice infestations, making it a great choice for both treatment and prevention.
How to use Tea Tree Oil to treat head lice:
- Wet hair and apply a normal amount of Tea Tree Shampoo. Massage into scalp for at least 2 minutes using your fingertips and getting right through to the whole scalp but without scratching it. Foaming is not important but getting shampoo/soap right through to the scalp is.
- Rinse thoroughly and apply shampoo for a second time, again massaging right into scalp. For this second application use lots of shampoo, massaging it into the scalp a little at a time so that it does not drip off. Foaming should be kept to a minimum as you are trying to suffocate the head lice and foam is mainly air.
- Wrap head securely in a towel, leave for at least 1 hour to kill as many lice as possible before rinsing thoroughly.
- Apply organic Tea Tree Conditioner and massage with the fingertips right through to the scalp. Leave on scalp for 2 minutes. (This will also make it easier when combing the hair through.)
- Using a special nit comb, comb out dead/dying lice and any lice eggs before rinsing thoroughly.
- Leave hair to dry naturally if possible.
- Repeat 8 days after first application.
- Treat the whole family at least to begin with.
For bad infestations add organic Tea Tree Essential Oil to the Tea Tree Shampoo before application. Approx. 8-12 drops in a 100ml bottle or 20-30 in a 250ml bottle. Shake bottle thoroughly to mix.
Why choose natural head lice treatments?
Natural treatments are often better than store-bought products because:
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They target both lice and their eggs for better results.
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Lice don’t develop resistance to natural remedies.
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They contain fewer harsh chemicals, making them gentler on sensitive skin.
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They are eco-friendly, avoiding harmful synthetic pesticides.
A safe, effective, and natural way to fight head lice!
How to keeps head lice away from hair?
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Use Tea Tree Shampoo – Replace your regular shampoo with in Organic Tea Tree Shampoo to help repel lice. Tea Tree Oil’s natural insect-repelling properties make it a powerful, chemical-free solution for both treating and preventing head lice.
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Keep Hair Tied Back – Lice spread through head-to-head contact, so secure long hair in a bun, ponytail, or plait to reduce the risk.
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Regular Checks – Inspect hair frequently and use a fine-tooth nit comb to remove any remaining lice or eggs.
Regular use of tea tree products should keep nits away as well as keep hair and scalps healthy and looking good naturally without any harsh chemicals.
References:
- bupa. (2023). Head Lice. Available at: https://www.bupa.co.uk/health-information/childrens-health/head-lice?
- bad. (2024). Head Lice. Available at: https://www.bad.org.uk/pils/head-lice/
