How to Get Rid of Head Lice Fast Using Home Remedies

Are you one of many unfortunate individuals dealing with a head lice problem at home? Head lice are small parasites that lodge themselves onto the human hair, where they like to get their blood meal. Head lice aren’t known for spreading diseases but should be dealt with quickly as the presence of head lice may result in other health concerns. Here are our top suggestions for getting rid of the head lice using natural home remedies.

How to get rid of head lice

1. Use the Wet Combing Method

The easiest way to get rid of head lice is to pick them out using a lice comb. You will need someone else to assist you when using the wet combing method. First, wet your hair then apply plenty of conditioner on the hair. Start from the scalp then work the lather towards the hair end.

Once the hair conditioner is applied, you will want to start going through your hair with a regular comb. This will make sure that the hair conditioner is exposed to the head lice that are gripping tightly to your hair and scalp. Be diligent with this and go section by section. After you comb a specific section of the hair, wipe the comb on a paper towel to check for any head lice or nits. A magnifying glass may be necessary to identify them.

2. Suffocate the Head Lice

Another method is to “suffocate” the head lice by coating your hair with almond, coconut, or olive oil. Some people may suggest using Vaseline or mayonnaise but we would not recommend using either due to the mess they will cause and the difficulty of washing them out from the hair.

After you are done applying the oil, we would still suggest going through your hair with a lice comb to pick out any head lice and lice eggs that are lingering around your scalp. When applying the oil, it’s important to apply it from the root of the hair so that you leave no room for the lice to hide.

3. Use Essential Oil to Repel the Lice

Essential oil could be used as an alternative. The oil, however, should be used with great care. It is made of natural chemicals but can still be highly toxic, especially if it has not been diluted. Some people may also have allergies to certain types of essential oils so always take precautions before using them.

Certain types of essential oils are known to be more effective than others when it comes to pest control. The types of oils that may be worth looking into are tea tree oil, lavender oil, neem oil, and eucalyptus oil. You will need to mix it with some type of carrier oil before applying the mixture on your hair. Don’t dilute it with water as it won’t mix with the essential oil.

4. Clean Items that Touch the Hair

Stop the head lice from spreading by washing the items that get into regular contact with your hair. This could include fashionable items like hats, scarves, and sweaters, or household items like pillow cases and towels. Wash and dry these items in the highest temperature setting the items would be able to handle.

Similar steps are required for other parasites that are common in households including bed bugs and fleas. Ultimately, the best solution is prevention. Check your hair more regularly when it is head lice season.

Head lice FAQ

Will diatomaceous earth kill head lice?

Yes, food-grade diatomaceous earth will kill lice. People have turned to organic means of killing lice as insects quickly develop resistance to chemical-based solutions. The lice will attack your body and suck blood from your scalp. This deprives your hair of nutrients and oxygen. Over time, dandruff develops and hair starts shedding. Your scalp will be itchy, and you will feel the lice moving in your head. They are very contagious, especially in kids, who spend most of their time in crowds. Food-grade diatomaceous earth is a natural product that even professionals recommend for the treatment of lice. Remember to take caution when using this powder. It poses a danger to anyone with asthma or other breathing complications, especially when it is breathed in large amounts.