How to Get Rid of Head Lice Without Using Chemicals

Just hearing the words "lice infestation" is enough to make many parents dread sending their child to school. In fact, between six and 12 million children are infected each year, according to "Pediatrics," the official journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics. While lice aren't dangerous, they are fairly disgusting, and children with head lice aren't allowed to return to school until they've been treated and meet other guidelines with regards to being contagious. Most over-the-counter lice treatments and shampoos contain chemicals that are similar to insecticides. It stands to reason, then, that many parents would be leery about using them on their child's head. Fortunately, there are options that don't require you to put chemicals on your child's body.

Things You'll Need

  • Fine-toothed or nit comb
  • Hair conditioner
  • Blow dryer or specially designed lice blow dryer
  • Smothering agent such as peanut butter, mayonnaise or olive oil
  • Shower cap
  • Shampoo

Instructions

  1. Combing Method

    • 1

      Wet your child's hair and apply conditioner to the wet hair. The water temporarily immobilizes the lice, according to KidsHealth, which makes it easier to find the lice and comb them out.

    • 2

      Dry your child's hair slightly so it isn't dripping, but don't rinse out the conditioner because it will help you comb through your child's hair more easily.

    • 3

      Comb gently through your child's hair, section by section, using a fine-toothed comb or nit comb. The comb will remove the lice from the hair by pulling them away from the scalp.

    • 4

      Repeat the conditioning and combing procedure every three to four days for two weeks after you see and remove the last live pest, recommends KidsHealth.

    Blow Dryer Method

    • 5

      Comb through your child's hair with a fine-toothed comb or nit comb.

    • 6

      Turn on a blow dryer or a specially designed lice blower, which are available at some large retail stores and pharmacies. Hold the blower over your child's head and move it around slowly. The force of the blowing air can blow any remaining lice and eggs out of your child's hair, according to Dr. William Sears, author of "The Portable Pediatrician: Everything You Need to Know About Your Child's Health."

    • 7

      Repeat the blow drying method each time you comb nits and lice out of your child's hair.

    Smothering Method

    • 8

      Apply a thick layer of a smothering agent, such as mayonnaise, peanut butter or olive oil, to your child's head. Use a generous amount to increase the effectiveness of the treatment. This will render the lice immobile and suffocate them so they stop laying eggs.

    • 9

      Place a shower cap over your child's head to contain the mess.

    • 10

      Leave the shower cap on overnight. In the morning, remove the shower cap and wash your child's hair thoroughly.

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