Natural Remedies for Head Lice

Head lice are small insects that live close to the scalp and attach eggs to hair shafts. Combing wet, conditioned hair with a fine-toothed lice comb can physically remove live lice and nits, especially when repeated carefully. Oils, vinegar, essential oils, mayonnaise, and similar household products may irritate the scalp or make combing messy; they should not be inhaled, swallowed, or used near the eyes. An itchy scalp can have causes other than lice, so seeing an insect or confirming nits close to the scalp matters.

Check the scalp in bright light, concentrating behind the ears and at the nape. Wet the hair, apply conditioner, divide it into small sections, and draw a lice comb from the roots to the ends, wiping the comb after each pass. Wash or heat-dry recently used pillowcases, hats, and clothing, and avoid sharing combs or headwear. Do not fumigate the home or use household pesticides. If live lice remain, discuss a purpose-made option with a pharmacist or clinician through Head Lice Treatment. A GP Consultation can help when the diagnosis is uncertain or the scalp is inflamed.

Arrange medical advice if repeated careful combing does not clear live lice, if scratching has caused sores or crusting, or if a child is very young or has a scalp condition. Seek prompt care for spreading redness, pus, marked swelling, fever, or significant pain. An itchy scalp or itching worse at night can occur with several conditions, so persistent symptoms without confirmed lice deserve an assessment.

Could this be head lice rather than dandruff or another scalp condition? Which treatment is suitable for this age and hair type? How should wet combing fit alongside treatment, and when should the scalp be checked again?