Lice are tiny, wingless parasites that are found in hair and on the scalp. They are often found among school-going kids and can be very embarrassing and troubling.
Lice can make their way even in the cleanest hair and scalp, so if you or someone you know gets them, do not worry, since lice are treatable and not considered dangerous. There are several effective remedies available to get rid of lice, including oils. In this article, we will be discussing two highly effective oils for lice in hair that can help alleviate the problem with minimum side effects.
1. Tea Tree Oil as a Lice Treatment
Tea tree oil is an essential oil that has been around for centuries. It is extensively used in beauty and skincare products. It has natural antimicrobial, antifungal, and antiseptic properties, making it the perfect solution for lice in hair.
The oil contains terpenoids, which are compounds that have been shown to kill lice and their eggs. Tea tree oil may not kill lice instantly, but it is effective, safe, and natural.
How to Use Tea Tree Oil as a Lice Treatment
Follow these simple steps to use tea tree oil as a lice treatment:.
- First, mix 12-15 drops of tea tree oil with two tablespoons of carrier oil, like coconut, almond, or olive oil.
- Apply the mixture on your scalp and hair.
- Massage the mixture into your scalp for at least 15-20 minutes.
- Leave the mixture on your hair and scalp overnight
- Wash your hair in the morning with an all-natural shampoo and conditioner.
2. Neem Oil as a Lice Treatment
Neem oil is a vegetable oil that is extracted from neem tree seeds and is widely used in Ayurvedic medicine. Neem oil is rich in fatty acids and contains natural antifungal and antibacterial properties, making it an effective treatment for lice.
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It works to suffocate and kill lice, with its pungent odor deterring them from laying eggs on your scalp.
How to Use Neem Oil as a Lice Treatment
Follow these simple steps to use neem oil as a lice treatment:.
- Mix an equal amount of neem oil and carrier oil, such as jojoba, almond, or coconut oil
- Apply the mixture to your scalp and hair, covering all hair strands.
- Massage the mixture into your scalp and hair. Lice tend to cling to hair shafts, so make sure you cover every strand.
- Leave the mixture on your hair and scalp for a minimum of 2 hours, or up to overnight.
- Wash your hair with a mild shampoo and conditioner to remove the oil and any dead lice or nits.
Preventative Measures
While using oils for lice treatment can be highly effective, preventative measures can work to stop lice infestation in the first place. Here are some preventive measures:.
- Avoid sharing combs, brushes, hats, clothing, towels, or other personal items.
- Encourage children not to share personal items at school or during fun activities like sleepovers.
- Do regular hair checks for lice. Early detection can help prevent them from forming a colony.
- Tie long hair back in braids, buns, or ponytails. Lice tend to target open and loose hair.
Conclusion
While treating lice may be bothersome, natural oils offer a simple, safe, and highly effective method for treating and preventing lice in hair.
Both tea tree oil and neem oil are great options for treating lice due to their natural antifungal, antibacterial, and antimicrobial properties. Additionally, taking preventative measures can help stop lice infestation.
