Home remedies for head lice

Head lice are small insects that live close to the scalp and feed on blood. Nits are eggs attached firmly to hair near the scalp; loose flakes usually slide along the hair more easily. Itching can be worse at night, but some people have little irritation at first. Finding a live crawling louse is more useful than relying on itch alone.

Use a fine-toothed nit comb on wet, conditioned hair, working in small sections from the scalp outward and wiping the comb after each pass. Repeat checks according to the product or clinician's instructions because eggs may hatch later. Wash recently used pillowcases, towels, and clothing, and soak combs and brushes in hot water. Avoid kerosene, insect sprays, mayonnaise, oils, or household chemicals; they can irritate skin or cause harm and may not kill lice. Do not share combs, hats, or hair accessories while checking the household.

Seek a GP or pharmacist assessment when you cannot confirm live lice, combing has not cleared them, or the scalp has sores, pus, marked swelling, or spreading redness. Ask for advice before using lice medicine on a young child, during pregnancy, or on an irritated scalp. Arrange prompt care if scratching is causing significant skin damage.

Ask how to distinguish nits from flakes, which treatment is suitable, when to repeat it, and whether close household contacts need checking. Tell them what product or home method you have already used.