Tea Tree Oil for Head Lice
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Tea Tree Oil For Head LiceHave the head lice been bothering you for a long time now? You are not alone. Millions of people especially 25% of school-going kids are affected by head lice every year.

Head to head contact, using things of an infected person are the main reasons of head lice spreading from one person to another.As head lice reproduce and mature very quickly it is impossible to get rid of them in a single sitting. They can survive in wet hair and don’t get washed out as they stick tightly to hair strands.

A great deal of money is spent on chemical treatments for head lice.  The worst part is – head lice have become resistant to most of the chemical treatments available in the market. Also the ingredients present in these treatments are neuro-toxic. If you want to know more about the dangers of chemical lice treatments click here.

Instead of resorting to such treatments, trust natural ingredients like tea tree oil, rubbing alcohol, neem oil and mayonnaise to treat the head lice without any side effects.

Here, let’s learn about – how tea tree oil or melaleuca oil helps to kill the head lice, how to use it and other precautions to take care off. Read on…

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Does tea tree oil kill lice infestation?

For Head Lice: Tea tree oil contains two major elements – 1, 8-cineole and terpinen-4-ol. These two elements have insecticidal properties due to inhibition of acetylcholinesterase. (1) 1% of tea tree oil solution is found to combat head lice by 100% with the time of 30 minutes. (2)

For nits or lice eggs: The nits are strongly attached to the hair shaft by the mother head lice. The gummy texture that connects nits and hair shaft is very strong. This gummy texture will be dissolved by the application of tea tree oil which makes it easy to remove while combing.

As per a study published by Parasitology research states that Tea Tree Oil can kill head lice in both nymph and adult stages. And it also showed promising results in preventing the eggs from hatching. (3)

For Re-infestation: The strong smell of tea tree repels the head lice from transferring from one to another. This is very helpful in preventing the infestation when a person or child in your house or class is already affected by head lice.

As per the study presented by International Journal of Dermatology, tea tree oil has shown results in repelling lice. (4)

These are real time experiences from our readers which worked for them. Remedies explained in detail after these comments

Verity says
When my daughter was three she had caught lice and she had it for almost a year. I treated it three separate time with rid and nix and so forth. I had also tried coconut oil, olive oil, mayonaise. Nothing worked. I use a lot of tea tree. But, I poured like one third of a bottle into maybe half a cup of conditioner. Slathered it onto her head and then wet her hair in the morning and combed it out. The lice was gone in one day. She caught lice again when she was 8. Did the tea tree method, gone in one day. She is 9 and got it again last week. Did the tea tree method. Gone in one day. I want to let every frustrated and crying mother at their wits end to know about this. It should be more common knowledge.

 

Heather says
I poured some cheap “Suave” Conditioner into a bowl, did about 10-15 drops of tea tree oil into the mixture, lathered it onto wet hair and took the comb to it. It was very simple! After we were done combing I rinsed my hair out and repeated that process every other day until I saw nothing left in my hair. I also followed your spray advice and almost every day I have been spraying my house down, furniture, sheets, towels, etc.
I added tea tree oil into all of our shampoo & conditioners too!

How to Use Tea Tree Oil for Lice?

There are different ways of using tea tree oil for treating head lice. Here is how to mix tea tree oil for head lice with different ingredients to make it super effective. You can choose any remedy given below as per your preference.

Note: Using tea oil for lice and treating them in one sitting is not possible, you have try the process regularly until you get rid of them completely.

1. Tea Tree Oil with Shampoo

Tea Tree Oil and Shampoo

This method work effective in treating moderate to severe head lice. It is very simple to prepare and follow the process. If you are wondering how much tea tree oil to add to shampoo for lice, here is your answer:

  • Add 10 drops of tea tree oil into your shampoo or conditioner.
  • Apply it on the scalp and along the hair.
  • Tie and cover your hair with shower cap.
  • Leave the application 10 – 15 minutes. For adults you can leave overnight.
  • Comb your hair thoroughly to remove the dead lice.
  • Rinse your hair with lukewarm water.
  • Repeat the process regularly.

Alternative: You can use shampoo containing tea tree oil and follow the same process.

2. Tea Tree Oil Spray

Tea Tree Oil Spray

This process is very easy to do, safe for even sensitive skin and effective as well. For people who cannot withstand the strong nature of tea tree oil, this process is safe for them.

  • Fill an empty spray bottle with 1 ounce of water.
  • Add 4 drops of tea tree oil into it.
  • Close the lid and shake well to let the ingredients combined together.
  • Spray the solution onto the scalp and along the hair.

To Remove Headlice: spritz the solution before going to bed. In the morning, dampen the hair slightly and comb through it thoroughly. Repeat the process regularly until you don’t find any head lice.

To Prevent or Repel Head  Lice: spray the solution daily in the morning or during night. Make sure to sprintz entire head.

Note: Spray the diluted tea tree oil on the furniture, stuffed toys, clothing and carpets to eliminate any head lice residing on them.

3. Tea Tree Oil for Head Lice

Tea tree oil alone can be used to treat head lice however you have to use it with caution. As it very strong in nature, it should never be applied directly. You have to dilute it properly with water or carrier oil to avoid burning sensation and other discomforts.

  • Apply diluted tea tree oil on the scalp and along the hair before going to sleep.
  • Leave the application overnight. (Place a towel on the pillow to avoid staining.)
  • The next morning, comb your hair to remove the dead lice.
  • Wash your hair with shampoo and conditioner which contain tea tree oil.
  • Repeat 2 – 3 times in a week depending on the severity of head lice infestation.

4. Tea Tree Oil with Apple Cider Vinegar

Tea Tree Oil and Apple Cider Vinegar

The acetic acid present in apple cider vinegar helps to dissolve the exoskeleton of the lice eggs. It also loosens up the gummy texture that holds the nits to the shaft. So, the nits easily get removed when comb the hair.

  • Into a spray bottle, add 5 ml of tea tree oil, 2 – 3 tablespoons of shampoo and 1 cup of apple cider vinegar.
  • Close the lid and shake the bottle well to incorporate the ingredients.
  • Spray the solution onto the scalp and along the hair.
  • Tie your hair and cover it with a shower cap.
  • Leave it on for about 20 – 30 minutes.
  • Wash your hair normally with shampoo and conditioner.
  • Repeat the process 3 – 4 times in a week until the head lice are completely eliminated.

5. Tea Tree Oil, Rosemary or Eucalyptus

As per a research published in Phytotherapy Research, eucalyptus has shown prominent results in killing head lice as it contains antiseptic properties. Rosemary contains insecticidal and antiseptic properties which help to deal with head lice.

  • Combine 1 teaspoon of tea tree oil and 1 teaspoon of either rosemary or eucalyptus oil.
  • Pour this solution into your shampoo and conditioner and mix well.
  • Now, you can use them regularly to wash your hair.
  • Repeat the process 3 times in a week.

Note: Make sure the eucalyptus oil doesn’t enter into eye or mouth as it causes irritation and pain.

6. Tea Tree Oil with Coconut Oil and Shampoo

The viscosity of this combination suffocates the head lice to breathe, feed and reproduce. This makes them impossible to live and eventually die. As per a clinical study, coconut oil has shown effective results over the commercial treatments containing permethrin. (5)

  • Combine 1 teaspoon of tea tree oil, 1 ounce of natural shampoo, and 3 tablespoons of coconut oil.
  • Apply the solution to the scalp and hair.
  • Cover your hair with either a towel or shower cap.
  • Leave it on for 30 minutes.
  • Comb your hair thoroughly to remove the dead lice.
  • Wash your hair normally with shampoo and conditioner.
  • Repeat 2 – 3 times in a week.

7. Tea Tree Oil and Lavender Oil

Lavender oil has natural anti insect repellent properties. The combination of lavender oil and tea tree oil act as suffocation agent, which makes it hard for head lice to breathe.

  • Combine 1 teaspoon of tea tree oil and ½ teaspoon of lavender oil.
  • Apply the solution onto the scalp and hair.
  • Leave the application for an hour or overnight.
  • Comb your hair thoroughly to remove head lice and wash your hair normally.
  • Repeat the process 2 – 3 times in a week.

8. Tea Tree Oil and Olive Oil

The insecticidal properties of olive oil kill the head lice. The combination of tea tree oil and olive oil makes it hard for head lice to crawl on the scalp.

  • Mix few drops of tea tree oil into 2 – 3 tablespoons of olive oil.
  • Apply the solution onto the scalp and hair.
  • Leave the application for 30 – 60 minutes and rinse with water.
  • Rinse your hair again with vinegar to further prevent lice.
  • Comb your hair to remove the dead lice.
  • Repeat the process for several days until you get rid of head lice completely.

9. Tea Tree Oil and Vodka

The combination of tea tree oil and vodka works effectively in killing the head lice. This process provides immediate relief from the itching.

  • Combine 15 – 20 drops of tea tree oil and 2 ounces of vodka.
  • Mix well until the two ingredients combine well.
  • Using a cotton ball, apply the solution onto the scalp and hair.
  • Leave it on for 10 – 12 hours.
  • Wash your hair thoroughly with shampoo and conditioner.
  • Repeat the process regularly.

10. Tea Tree Oil with Rubbing Alcohol

Rubbing alcohol contains disinfectant properties. (6) It provides relief from the itching and heals the open sores. It prevents the head lice from sucking your blood.

  • Combine 20 drops of tea tree oil and 3 – 4 ounces of rubbing alcohol.
  • Pour onto a spray bottle, close the lid and shake well.
  • Spray the solution onto the scalp and hair.
  • Leave the application for 12 hours or overnight.
  • Next morning, wash your hair normally.
  • Repeat the process 2 times in a week to eliminate the head lice completely.

11. DIY Lice Treatment Solution

In this process we will use different essential oils for head lice such as sesame oil, neem oil, eucalyptus oil, rosemary oil, lavender oil and tea tree oil. All these oils have the properties of killing the head lice, loosening the nits and reducing the itchiness. It is a natural alternative for commercial lice treatment kits.

  • Into a mixing bowl, add 1 teaspoon of tea tree oil, 1/3 cup of neem oil, 1/4 cup of sesame oil, 1 1/2 teaspoon of eucalyptus oil, 5 – 10 drops of lavender oil and 10 drops of rosemary oil.
  • Mix the ingredients well until they are completely blended.
  • Apply the solution onto the scalp and along the hair.
  • Leave the application overnight.
  • Next morning, wash your hair normally and towel dry.
  • Repeat the process 2 times in a week until the head lice are completely eliminated.

How to Treat Lice Naturally During Pregnancy?

Pregnant ladies should avoid using commercial head lice treatments because the chemicals present in it can cause birth defects. As per American Pregnancy, tea tree oil is completely safe to use during pregnancy if diluted properly. (7)

  • Combine 15 – 20 drops of tea tree oil with 2 ounces of carrier oil (coconut oil, olive oil, castor oil or jojoba oil).
  • Mix well and apply the mixture on the scalp.
  • Leave the application for at least 10 – 12 hours.
  • Comb the hair thoroughly.
  • Wash the hair normally with shampoo and water.
  • Repeat the treatment if necessary.

Side Effects of Tea Tree Oil

As per National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), tea tree oil is considered safe for topical application. (8) However, it does have some risk factors…

  • The compounds present in tea tree oil can irritate the skin. In some people, it can even lead to contact dermatitis.
  • As per NCCIH, using tea tree oil hair products has led to development of enlarged breast tissues in prepubescent boys.
  • Consumption of tea tree oil is highly toxic. It can lead to loss of muscle control, rash, disorientation, drowsiness and even coma.

Dangers of Chemical Lice Treatments

  1. Lindane: This is toxic organochlorine insecticide, and has been banned by 18 countries due to its adverse side effects. It is an endocrine disruptors which can cause abnormalities of reproductive tract, decreased sperm count and certain cancers. It can cause learning and behavior problems as well. If pregnant use the product containing this ingredient then it can lead to birth defects in the baby. (9, 10, 11)
  2. Malathion: Malathion is also known as carbophos, maldison and mercaptothion, karbofus and many others. Its toxicology effects include reproductive, mutagenic, teratogenic, carcinogenic effects and organ toxicity. (12, 13)
  3. Permethrin and Pyrethrum: Though this ingredient is not as toxic as lindane, it leads to skin, eye and respiratory problems, allergic reactions, blood damage, suppress immune system. (14, 15)

It is important that no children, nursing mothers, pregnant women should be given these poisonous products for treating head lice.

Tips and Precautions

  • Make sure to patch test tea tree oil before trying out regular treatments.
  • Avoid tea tree oil if you are allergic or sensitive to it.
  • Don’t leave any application more than instructed as it can damage the scalp.
  • If one person of the family is infested with head lice then everyone in the family should follow regular head lice treatment to prevent the spreading of head lice.
  • Wash the bed sheets and pillows in hot water.
  • Vacuum the floors or carpets regularly.
  • Avoid head to head contact and sharing hair accessories with infested person.
  • Clean you combs and hair accessories regularly.

 

Have you tried these home methods to treat lice before? Use tea tree oil for head lice prevention and share your experience and suggestions in the comments section below.

136 comments
  1. In method 2 for removing nits do i apply to dry or wet hair. And I’m using a tea tree oil conditioner along with the 5 drops, is that a problem?

      1. Not true. Dogs get lice just not the same as our lice. But they do look and act the exact same as ours.

  2. When my daughter was three she had caught lice and she had it for almost a year. I treated it three separate time with rid and nix and so forth. I had also tried coconut oil, olive oil, mayonaise. Nothing worked. I use a lot of tea tree. But, I poured like one third of a bottle into maybe half a cup of conditioner. Slathered it onto her head and then wet her hair in the morning and combed it out. The lice was gone in one day. She caught lice again when she was 8. Did the tea tree method, gone in one day. She is 9 and got it again last week. Did the tea tree method. Gone in one day. I want to let every frustrated and crying mother at their wits end to know about this. It should be more common knowledge.

    1. Verity I am dealing with my kids and the same situation you had. How many times did you treat their hair with the tea tree oil per day before it was gone?

    2. I have been going crazy between two 11 year old girl. My daughters have lice, and i have tried everything every type of lice treatment. Going to go get this Tea tree oil. So i put a couple drops on there head at night and lay a towel down? ALso i can spray it on there pillows, mattress, stuff animals, ect.. Im going crazy with all the money we have forked out and all the treatments i have to do once a week. I want to get this out of my house!

    3. I have a friend who’s step son comes home from his mother’s weekend with lice I trying to help she has used all the chemicals she can safely us on a 6yr . It seems I have read some where there is a mixture that be sprayed on clothing and bed to limit the chance of him getting th again can some one help? I love tea tree oil I use it for many different reasons. Please help my friend Thank you

          1. Yes, the diluted tea tree oil solution can be sprayed on the infested head to treat the infestation and prevent it as well. For a detailed step-by-step process, you can read 2nd method mentioned in the article.

        1. will the smell be noticeable?is it harmful to someone to sit on furunuiture or carpet after spraying tea tree oil please help im desparate tried everything including expensvie meds

  3. Where could I get it?? And does it matter what kind of tea tree oil there is so many I have no idea what to choose from HELP!!

    1. You can buy at any local store or online stores like Amazon or Walmart. You can buy 100% pure Australian essential tea tree oil. Some of the best brands you can buy in USA are doTERRA, Young Living, Plant Therapy and Eden’s Garden.

  4. Can I always leave Tea Tree in her daily shampoo and conditioner ? So every day she has it in her hair. Is ok. Can I use lavender to help keep them away.

    1. Yes, you can mix and store it. Make batches every week instead of storing a single batch for more than 2 weeks. Tea tree oil works better than lavender oil.

  5. I have an adult 28 year old daughter and a 16 year old daughter. The oldest brought headlice home from her job , never told us . Now we’ve got super bad add odor and can’t get rid of it. I’ve even used tea treeoulshampoo n conditioners and it is still not gone ,have also used olive oil and white vinegar ,& lice killing shampoo. Please somebody help me what else can Ido?

        1. There is no need to cut off the hair. Try any remedy mentioned above. If the head lice don’t go even after the several treatments and if there too many nits, then you can cut the hair.

    1. Tea tree oil is very harmful for dogs if it is not properly diluted. So dilute tea tree oil in large amounts of shampoo before you use it on dogs.

  6. can tea tree oil be used around cats (as in using the spray bottle with water and tea tree oil to spray on beds, couches, etc.) we have 2 grown cats

    1. Tea tree oil is safe for cats only if it diluted properly. Make sure tea tree oil is not ingested by cats as it can be very dangerous.

  7. I read this looking for a way to prevent getting lice in the first place. If tested to see about reaction can this be sprayed on and left on during the day?

      1. If I add to shampoo can I add it to conditioner as well? And does it have to sit on for so long before rinsing? And also should I have them wash their hair every day with that being added in the bottle of shampoo or is every other day still OK as we do. * Preventing not treating*

        1. As you want to prevent the head lice infestation, you can just rinse their hair once in 2 days. You can add tea tree oil in shampoo and conditioner but make sure to reduce the quantity you add into them. If they don’t have head lice then it is not required to sit for so long.

    1. Apply coconut oil or olive oil on the scalp and along the hair. Put on a shower cap and leave it overnight. Next morning, comb the hair. Make sure the comb has soft bristles. Give a head bath with baby shampoo and water.

      1. I wouldn’t recommend putting a plastic bag on a baby’s head as it can easily slip down and suffocate the baby overnight. Actually, there are cases where mothers have had that exact thing happen by mistake. Better to do it during the day while you can supervise 100% of the time.

  8. Thank you so much for this information .. My daughter caught head lice recently and I made the tea tree coconut oil shampoo for our whole family. It worked really well and all the bugs on her scalp were dead. I combed everyone’s hair with the not comb, although she was the only one with evidence of lice.
    Tonight I checked her hair again and I see new nits. We must’ve missed one egg and it hatched and we are starting again.
    I am thinking about making a tea tree spray to apply to her scalp nightly, or every other night to kill the nits (in case we have any stragglers this time). How do you recommend I create this? Should it just be straight tea tree oil? Or can I mix it with something? Thank you again for your knowledge and support.

    1. Dilute tea tree oil with enough amounts of water. Mix well and pour into a spray bottle. Spray on her hair before going to bed and rinse off next morning. Make sure to dilute it properly or in more amounts of water as sometimes improper dilution can lead to burning sensation on the scalp.

      1. I thought u couldn’t mix oil with water I’ve read many sites that say water and oil don’t mix…is that true?

        1. Water soluble tea tree oil mixes well with the water. You can purchase it in any local or online stores. If you don’t have water soluble tea tree oil, then you can mix the oil based on with any carrier oil like olive oil, almond oil or coconut oil.

  9. I just found out tonight I have lice I got it also from work I used tea tree oil with shampoo then while my hair was still wet I did a conditioner with tea tree oil in it an left it in my hair for 30 mins but I have a question is my scalp supposed to feel like its burning ? I did rinse out the stuff once the 30 mins was over but why is it still tingling an a burning sensation ??

    1. As per your description we are unaware of the quantity of tea tree oil you used. Improper dilution of tea tree oil can lead to burning or tingling sensation. So, next time whenever you use make sure to dilute it more with shampoo/conditioner. If you are not able to withstand the burning sensation, apply aloe vera to the scalp you will find relief.

  10. I made the spray (10 drops with 2 cups water) planning to spray furniture, carpet, bedding etc. we have 1 cat and a Guinea pig – are there any concerns with spraying this in the home with them?

    1. Diluted tea tree oil is considered safe and well tolerated by cats and guinea pigs. But dilute it in more amount of water. 10 drops in 4 cups of water should be safe for them. Avoid their presence while spraying the solution. After 30 minutes of spraying, allow them into the room.

  11. I have the Hollywood beauty tea tree oil….will it harm my 14 year old daughter if I don’t dilute it,and put it on straight out of bottle?

    1. It is better to patch test before trying out complete treatment. Undiluted tea tree oil can cause irritation, burning sensation and redness. If it is not causing any of them you can apply it directly. But we recommend diluting it properly to avoid any consequences in future.

  12. I want to put the tea tree oil in my daughter’s shampoo, how would you recommend I do this? How many drops per bottle? Conditioner also..

    1. Add 10 – 15 drops of tea tree oil into 2 cups of water and pour the mixture into a spray bottle. Shake well and spray it on your furniture and hairs.

  13. I want to spray our house and also use as prevention. We’ve dealt with lice 3 times this year, twice in the last 4 weeks! I’m 31 weeks pregnant and we have a small dog. For the dog, should I spray then let him come in after a half hour, after its dried? As for me, if I dilute it properly in our shampoo and conditioner, what are the risks?

    1. Yes, allow your dog inside after 30 min to an hour after spraying. It is safe to use tea tree oil dilute in shampoo and conditioner for pregnant ladies. So don’t worry but make sure you don’t ingest it by any means as it is highly toxic when consumed.

  14. Thank you SO much for the great advice. What an amazing oil!! I have two daughters who attend a school and head lice is going around like crazy. I am trying to prevent it. We followed your instructions for shampoo and conditioner, but can I use the diluted spray (10 drops to 4 cups water) to lightly spray their hair in the morning, after I put it in buns or braids? Or would you not recommend that? Again, thank you!

    1. Yes, you use diluted tea tree oil spray to lightly spray the hair. It helps to prevent and stop spreading of the head lice infestation.

    1. Yes, it is safe. But if it is causing any redness, irritation or other discomfort then reduce the amount of tea tree oil.

  15. I had head lice a week ago and treated with Mayonnaise and tea tree oil. It killed the lice and I removed with comb. Two day prior, I seen a Dermatologist with numerous itch bumps. She didn’t say anything about lice and I had went to ER 5 months prior so I had itch shampoo and Itch pills which didn’t help because I didn’t realize I had lice. It has been seven days since I treated with Mayo and tea tree oil. Last night my scalp started itching so I sprayed tea tree oil and left over night. I now have Mayo in hair with shower cap and tight bag. The first treatment I left on for 4 hours. Do I have to leave it on that long this time. I know mayo doesn’t kill egg but tea tree oil does. Mayo and Tea tree oil has worked wonderfully. I have treated my home and linens and bagged what I couldn’t wash or dry. What is my next step. Thank you for any advice.

    1. You can leave the application as per your convenience. If it is causing any discomfort then leave it for lesser time. Generally, we suggest leaving it for 4 – 8 hours (for adults). Repeat the process regularly for 2 times a week. Once don’t have any head lice, stop the process.

  16. I have gotten head lice from somewhere,somehow. My question is if I use the spray mixture. With 10- 15 drops of tea tree oil. How many times vs it be applied in 24 hours also would it have to be showered off between applications. Will it be strong enough to enough to kill both lice and nits? Thank-you and God Bless all.

    1. You can spray the mixture before going to bed and leave it overnight. Brush your hair thoroughly and wash normally with shampoo and water. You can also add few drops to your shampoo for extra results. Yes, the mixture is strong enough to eliminate lice. But don’t forget to repeat the process regularly.

  17. Is it normal for your head to hurt I put the tea tree oil, coconut oil and water in a water and spayed that in my head and my daughter and put a cap over it we slept the whole night like that’s and ever since my head has been hurting a lot I had to even miss work

    1. No, it is not normal. As per your description, we are not sure if the headache is caused due to tea tree oil. But you can avoid tea tree oil and see if the headache didn’t come back. If it is caused by tea tree oil then avoid it and try different remedies. You can find more remedies, in this article – http://wellness.guide/head-lice/

  18. My 16 yr old step daughter brought home lice about 2 months ago and I treated her with the normal over the counter lice treatment but she never followed up as directed and she still has it and now I have it too. In fact I keep finding adult lice fall off my head, dead. Does that mean anything?? Can you email me exact directions with using tea tree oil vs the over counter stuff. Sounds like it has been more successful than the over the counter stuff! Including the spray mixture to spray everywhere we sit and sleep, etc. Thanks!!

    1. We have provided step by step process of every method in the above article. Choose any remedy as per your convenience and try it regularly. The 8th method in the article has the process of making a spray with tea tree oil. You can spray this solution on furniture, carpets, stuffed toys and mattress.

      1. Step 1. Tea Tree Oil- What would you suggest after waking up in the morning for combing? I would think trying to comb you hair after waking up would be a mess. Hair tangled up from tossing and turning!

        Let me know what your thoughts are on how I approached this. I poured some cheap “Suave” Conditioner into a bowl, did about 10-15 drops of tea tree oil into the mixture, lathered it onto wet hair and took the comb to it. It was very simple! After we were done combing I rinsed my hair out and repeated that process every other day until I saw nothing left in my hair. I also followed your spray advice and almost every day I have been spraying my house down, furniture, sheets, towels, etc.

        I added tea tree oil into all of our shampoo & conditioners too!

  19. Hi, my 5 yr old daughter came home from kindergarten with a letter stating that someone in her class has lice, and we should watch out for them. Can I mix 10-15 drops of tea tree oil in her leave in detangler? She has curly hair, and I usually spray it in the morning before brushing. Just wondering if I can prevent it that way? the bottle is about 250ml, do you think 15 drops is too much? Thanks!

    1. Yes, the spray will help to prevent the head lice. If the solution is not causing any discomfort to her then you can continue. If it is causing any discomfort then reduce the quantity of tea tree oil.

  20. If I don’t have a dropper for my tea tree oil about how many teaspoons would I need for a spray solution and how much to add to shampoos??

    1. You can add 1/2 teaspoon of tea tree oil into your shampoo and about 1/2 – 1 teaspoon of tea tree oil for a spray solution.

    1. Leaving it overnight provides more effective results. If you cannot leave it overnight, then you can leave it for 2 hours but the results would be less.

  21. I’ve done the spray treatment for about a week. Every other day for my 2 daughter’s who caught lice from school. We have been dealing with it for a while using different methods. This is my first time to use tea tree oil. When I use a nit comb on their hair I don’t see anything on the brush or towel as I wipe off between brushes. But when I’m donexcited other he combing I still see eggs. What am I doing wrong? Or what else can I do? I’m desperate.

    1. Increase the tea tree oil quantity and apply it along the hair strands. Patch test before applying to make sure it isn’t causing any irritation. See if it works out.

  22. Hello,
    I found 2 full size lice and about 5 babies on my 3.5 year old. I found them while combing her hair after a bath. I then sent hubby to store and bought an over the counter kit to treat them. I did the process on her and her twin sister, after washing, you apply a gel and comb out a 2 in section of hair doing the whole head. During that time, I did not remove any Nits or see any more lice. It says to re-wash in 1 week.

    In the meantime, I was going to treat with tea tree oil spray and/or the shampoo solution on both the girls and myself. In your experience, is this too much?

    1. It is better to use either the commercial one or natural method. As your kid is still very young their scalp cannot handle of all them. Sometimes, it can lead to skin irritation.

  23. My daughter is two years old. Today I found one live lice and 7 egss. We have been using the lice comb on her hair all day. I would like to use the tea tree oil on her head to kill eggs and or any live lice that we have missed with the lice comb. How do I use the tea tree oil treatment on her head? Also how do I make the spray to use on her head for every day use. Thank you

    1. combine 2 – 3 drops of tea tree oil and 2 – 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Apply this mixture on the scalp and along the hair. Leave the application for 30 minutes and rinse with water. Comb the hair to remove the dead lice. For a tea tree oil spray – add 1/2 cup of water and 3 drops of tea tree oil to an empty spray bottle. Close the lid and shake the bottle well. Spray the solution on the hair.

  24. If I had a 2 oz bottle of tea tree oil would it be safe to split it three ways for 2 shampoo bottles and for the home spray?

  25. You mentioned that one could apply tea tree oil to a regular shampoo, but is it as effective to buy a shampoo that already contains tea tree oil? If so, which would you recommend?

    1. You can buy a shampoo that contains tea tree oil like Tru Moroccan Repair Shampoo, Keva or Tea tree mint shampoo.

  26. I use only use tree tea shampoo and conditioner I wish more people could understand how good it is not only for lice but so much more my friends kids were just told they had lice and Im now showing her tree tea knock on wood that I can say that because we only use tree tea my family has not had any in 14 years from the first day we started using tree tea

  27. I got head lice at the beginning of this week, and i use Melaluca shampoo that contain a small amount of tea tree oil. I found lice in my hair and told my dad. My two sister have it now and we all washed our hair with a shampoo called “tea tree mint shampoo” and i washed my hair with Melaluca and let it sit, then i washed it with the new shampoo. I blow dried my hair and found lice and i still have nits. If i do this process every two days about how long do you think it will take to get rid of lice and nits completely?

    1. As per the method and treatment time, we have mentioned various above in the article with a detailed description. You can try any one of them as per your feasibility.

  28. I have used the tea tree oil the green rubbing alcohol olive oil mayo and extra virgin olive oil I mixed them all together and left it in my kids hair over night next day wash it out and colmb it out and then everyday spray a tea tree solution of water and tea tree oil in a bottle spray their heads everyday and it stays gone it usually only has ever taken me one time of doing this each time they have gotten it for it to be gone after treating it

  29. this is post if for mainly women and men with long hair that are looking for the best way to be bug free in 3 days… First you need to start this as soon as you get off from work Friday so you can be 100% by Sunday afternoon…
    Step 1… get a large coffee mug and fill it with apple cider vinegar and a brush that will fit all the way into the mug and step into the shower.. Dip the brush in the vinegar and completely soak your hair. then with you finger tips rub in the vinegar to the entire scalp… Yes its going to sting but not that bad and cover with shower cap for 1 hr’ then rinse the vinegar out with very hot water… now you just killed 95% of the born lice . Use the brush and go over all you hair while head is in the shower stream and then dry hair with towel till your hair is not dripping.
    Step 2… use same coffee mug rinse it out and add 1/4 cup tea tree oil 1/8 cup lavender oil and fill the rest of the mug with Suave coconut conditioner and mix well. Then with same brush apply a thick coat all hair completely and rub into scalp. Then cover again with shower cap lot overnight o.r 6hr.
    step 3… next morning use META take some timeL lice comb and completely comb out all the mixture and wash comb after every stroke. Go front to back till no more mixture and debris from eggs and whatever else that may be in you hair till all your hair is combing our clean..Depending on length of your hair it may take some time. Then rinse hair with hot water using you brush. then towel dry very well.
    Step 4 … Put thick coat of mayo and rub into scalp and cover with shower cap overnight., the next morning wash your hair with Dawn then shampoo and condition.
    You are now bug, egg and dandruff free and you hair will be very healthy looking. Yes its a pain in the ass but it;s better than being bit by bugs or following other methods just to have to repeat the process in 7 days.
    Good Luck and God Bless

      1. My daughter had an infestation of lice and a very bad one, she lives in another province with her father and came down for a visit when I noticed the insane amount of nits and lice in her hair, we used Teatree oil and Teatree shampoo and mixed them together, left it for the 15 minutes used the nit comb and basically filled the sink with the pesky little critters, however they were all dead from the solution. I did the treatment a day later as well just to be sure, today I noticed a couple more nets in her hair and redid the treatment. We treated the whole family just in case, I had three lice in my hair and few nits, my question is is there a difference between a lice infestation and only having a couple? Now that I have done two treatments to my hair should my hair be OK? Or should I have to keep applying the Teatree oil as if I had a whole infestation? I’m still going to make my daughter use the Teatree shampoo without mixing it with the Teatree oil pretty much from now on LOL should the Teatree shampoo prevent her from being infested again or should I keep applying the Teatree oil into the Teatree shampoo as well?

        1. If you have just few lice then it is better to use tea tree oil shampoo for few washes just to make sure they are dead and don’t produce more leading an infestation. For your daughter as well, we recommend using tea tree oil shampoo regularly to make sure she doesn’t get head lice again.

  30. My son, who lives with a bunch of other people came to visit me for my Birthday, haven’t seen him in 2 years. While he was here, he barrowed our car to visit some people he knew in this area. I tell you that, to tell you this. He had spent some time in my bedroom watching my TV, laying on my bed. Well after he left I started to itch, feels like something crawling over my fine body hairs. Asked him about these friends and if they were clean, he said no they weren’t doing so well and were rather dirty. So I am wondering what he brought into my home. I have some bites, but not bed bug type bites, just bites here and there, my head it itchy. Asked my husband if he is okay, he says yes. But I have seen him scratching a bit as well, but you know how men can get. Asked him to look in my hair, says he saw nothing. Next thing my ear plugged up so bad with something, I went to Urgent care, they found a wad of something in my ear (white and creepy) they didn’t know what it was. So I have been all over online and the only things that seem to match what I feel is going on is body lice or scabies? Guess I won’t know unless I go to a dermotologist. But in the mean time, willing to try the lice thing to rule it out maybe? So bottom line is can I use tea tree oil on my body? And if so, what would be the best way and soak time etc? Thanks in advance.

    1. : It is better to know the reason for the discomfort before you try any method. For relief, you may soak in lukewarm water for 15 – 20 minutes.

      1. Thanks for the reply.

        I did the tea tree suggestions all over my body, been doing bedding, towels in hot water and drying for ever, hosing down couch and chairs with solution of tea tree. Feeling a bit better, think i will continue for a bit and see how that works out for me. Sure is tough when you feel you can’t invite family for a visit 🙁 Wish me luck!

  31. とても商品のコメントが信じられて、リピートしちゃってます。
    質問等、MAILでのやりとりしてくれるし、親切丁寧わかりやすい!
    これからもヨロピクです☆
    【送料無料】ルイヴィトン コインケースをセール価格で販売中♪ルイヴィトン コインケース モノグラム ヴェルニ ポルト モネ フロコン M58218 アルジャン 新品 雪 スノーフレーク チェーン チャーム LOUIS VUITTON
    感動!
    超綺麗でした!
    多少のキズは覚悟していたのですが、全然目立たなくて・・・
    早速お気に入りです。

  32. After you kill or subdue the lice with tea tree products….
    – you MUST carefully comb out all the nits (eggs) with a good nit comb or they will continue to hatch every few days. This takes about 1-2 hours per head since you can only do 1-2 square inch at a time gently scooping up and away from the scalp. (Wet hair strands with a tea tree water+conditioner works best)
    – Any items that can’t be laundered in hot water, need to be put in a corner or closet and not used for 10 days (backpacks, hats, throw pillows, etc)
    – Also vacuum carpets and sofa.
    – Combs and hair accessories can be strilized by leaving them in your freezer overnight.

  33. i bought a bottle of hydrating tea tree mint shampoo …..will this kill lice……or do I have to buy the oil to mix into, my shampoo……and if the purchased shampoo will work……then how do I apply this to my 15 year old daughters head

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