We know that head lice are an absolute nightmare, even the thought of them makes us feel itchy, and that is why ensuring you have the best head lice treatments and products is important for all the family.
Of all the pleasures involved in parenting, combing through your child's hair for signs of head lice or nits is definitely not on the list. Head lice are very common among toddlers and children and even though they are entirely harmless, they are quite frankly, pretty irritating.
Unfortunately, lice are very contagious and they spread easily, so if your little one's infected, then it's best to keep them away from other people until they've been treated. Also, ensure your little one's hairstyle for school keeps the hair tied up or plaited. "They spread by head-to-head human contact, climbing from the hair of an infected person to the hair of someone else" says Dr Leda Kourita, of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health.
Best head lice treatments at a glance 2024:
Luckily, there are many ways you can eradicate them quickly and efficiently. We have put together a list of the best-rated head lice treatments, hair shampoos and combs so you can get rid of your little one's head lice pronto.
What are head lice?
Head lice are small insects that live on the scalp and feed on blood. They are about the size of a sesame seed and are generally grey or brown. As they're highly contagious and spread primarily through direct head-to-head contact, they're a common problem at school where children might be playing closely or sitting closer together. They can also spread by sharing personal items like combs, hats, or pillows so this is something to watch out for in your own home. They lay their eggs, known as nits, close to the scalp, so treating head lice means treating both the lice and the nits. Although head lice are not dangerous and don't spread disease, they do cause itching and can be unpleasant.
How to check for lice
To check for lice, find a well-lit space and use a fine-toothed lice comb on damp hair which makes it easier to spot lice. Separate the hair into small sections and comb from the scalp to the ends, wiping the comb on a white towel or kitchen roll to check for lice or nits, which are tiny, oval-shaped eggs that stick to hair strands close to the scalp. Pay extra attention to areas behind the ears and at the nape of the neck, as lice often congregate there. Repeat the process thoroughly, looking for small, moving insects or white to yellowish-brown nits.
How to get rid of head lice
While head lice aren't a pleasant thing to deal with, there are so many head lice treatments and products on the market you can generally find one to make the job easier. You might find that you need a combination of shampoo, comb and treatment to make sure they're thoroughly dealt with.
Head lice shampoo: Normal shampoo will not remove head lice. In fact, when in water, head lice will stop moving and lock themselves onto the hair. A shampoo specifically made for treating head lice will help to treat the infestation.
Head lice comb: This is a very time-consuming but effective method to get rid of lice. Start by separating your little one's hair into sections. Use a specially designed fine-toothed comb to remove all head lice and nits. You'll need to wash the hair first, comb through it when it is still wet, repeat the action through the same strand several times, and clean the comb after each stroke.
Head lice treatments: There are plenty of head lice treatments on the market that will eradicate your child's head lice. They come in sprays or mousse form and are highly effective.
Head lice home remedies: According to NHS advice on head lice and nits, herbal remedies and the use of tree and plant oils such as tea tree oil, eucalyptus oil and lavender oil aren't recommended to treat head lice and nits as they are not thought to be thoroughly effective. Nevertheless, if you're trying to avoid chemicals, there are some natural remedies on the market that you could try. Some home remedies include smothering the lice and suffocating them using something like olive oil or almond oil.
Best head lice treatments and products 2024
Best head lice treatment for long thick hair
AmazonVamousse Treatment mousse is one of the most effective head lice treatments, proven to kill 100% of head lice and eggs in scientific tests within 15 minutes. We like that the Vamousse Treatment Mousse Head Lice comes with a comb inside the box and is easy to use, which you'll appreciate when you're treating your wriggling child's hair. It's suitable for 2+ years and is also non-toxic and pesticide-free. It was also rated particularly highly by parents of children with long, thick hair.
You simply apply the mousse to the hair and work the formula into the scalp. Then comb the hair to remove the dead lice and nits. Unlike some head lice treatments which require multiple treatments to kills the lice and then their eggs, Vamousse requires just one treatment and kills both in one go.
One trusted reviewer said: "My daughter has intensely thick and curly hair and no amount of wet combing or normal nit treatment did anything to get rid of the nits. I spent hours every couple of days for months trying in vain to rid her of them. Nothing worked! I finally tried this after my friend recommended it and after one treatment she was completely clear! I've just given her a comb through 4 days post-treatment to check and didn't find a single nit. I could cry! I should also add that it leaves no oily residue like other treatments I've tried. It washed out in one wash and actually left her hair feeling soft and conditioned. Absolutely recommend."
Pros
- Proven to kill 100 per cent of lice and eggs in 15 minutes
- Doesn't leave hair greasy
Cons
- Has to be left on for quite a while compared to other treatments
| Volume: | 160ml |
- Steel comb included
- 15 minutes to treat
Best value head lice treatment
AmazonAnother 2-in-1 product containing both treatment and the nit comb, this five minutes Full Marks Solution comes with four treatments in the box and is effective at killing both head lice and eggs. It's also free from odour, so it doesn't leave a nasty smell behind.
It works to kill the lice and nits in just 5 minutes, simply use a normal comb or brush on dry hair to remove any tangles. Shake the bottle and apply the solution to dry hair, close to the root, ensuring the entire scalp and hair are fully coated with the solution. Massage in and leave on the hair for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, comb the hair using the fine metal toothed Full Marks Removal Comb provided to remove dead lice and any eggs. It's recommended that you check and treat all members of the house on the same day to avoid the lice returning or spreading.
One reviewer commented: "My little one had some lice eggs. I did the treatment and no sign at all. The whole bottle will be enough for like 5 people. Easy to use even on long hair. Just make sure you have a good shampoo to rinse the treatment after (took me like 2 times to rinse that grease off). Doesn't smell bad. Special comb include!"
Pros
- Comb included to make it easy to remove the lice and nits
- Three simple steps to remove head lice
Cons
- Some mentioned hair needs a thorough rinse after use
| Volume: | 200ml |
| Number of treatments: | 4 |
- Four treatments
- Comb included
Best head lice treatment exfoliator
This is not quite a nit comb, but the Tangle Teezer The Scalp Exfoliator and Massager works its multi-tasking magic by detoxing the scalp, which will help clear the product build-up from all the nit treatments in your child's hair. Nits can be traumatic for children and parents, so this Tangle Teezer will give your child some massage TLC and calm them down.
A verified reviewer said: "This doesn’t scratch or hurt the scalp at all (which in turn makes it ideal for use on the kids, as well). The way this is shaped makes it easy to grip and hold throughout. This is an absolute joy to use regularly. I can’t recommend this enough."
Pros
- Easy to grip so can be used by kids and grownups
- Dual-purpose teeth
Cons
- More effective on wet hair if removing nits and lice
| Dimensions: | 6.5 x 4.5 x 8.5cm |
- Helps clear the scalp
- Easy to use design
- Dual purpose comb teeth
Best head lice shampoo
AmazonThe Hedrin All-in-One shampoo kills head lice and eggs in just five minutes. You can apply during bath time as part of their normal shampoo session, so you don't have to try and encourage your little one to sit still. It includes both shampoo and comb, making it quick and easy to both check for and treat lice.
The 200ml bottle should allow for enough applications for the whole family, or multiple treatments, based on 8 x 25ml treatments, and it's safe for use on the whole family.
One reviewer said: "I’ve tried many products and they all do basically the same thing. This differs slightly as it’s only a 5 min leave on which is much easier than 15mins. You apply to dry hair, leave then lather out with shampoo. It’s easy to do in the bath with kids without them complaining it’s too long (15mins to a child is ages apparently). As with many other treatments, you need to comb the eggs out. The comb supplied is good so it’s not difficult, just time consuming."
Pros
- Quick treatment - only needs to be left on for 5 minutes
- Suitable for adults and children
Cons
- Only four applications in a bottle so won't do larger families or repeat treatments
| Volume: | 200ml |
| Number of treatments: | 4 |
- All in one solution
- Comb included
Best liquid gel head lice treatment
AmazonThis Hedrin Once Liquid Gel should be spread thoroughly throughout the hair from root to tip in order to kill head lice, nits and unhatched eggs. Unlike some of the faster working lice treatments on our list, the Hedrin gel needs to be left on the hair for 15 minutes but as it's a gel it stays in place and shouldn't drip while you're waiting. You then just wash it out so there's no need to comb through which makes it a great option for kids who hate having their hair brushed! The thicker gel formula is odourless and fast-acting, and suitable for everyone in the family from 6 months+.
A user commented: "With children in school nits are always an issue even when they become older and are teenagers. I've used a few different brands of nit/egg removers and feel that Hedrin once does a better job as it seems to work first time and a repeat is only needed occasionally.
It works quickly (15ish mins) so can be done after school in the evening, unlike the ones that need to be left in for 8+ hours. It isn't particularly easy to wash out and I find it takes quite a bit of shampoo to get clean hair after. I usually buy a bottle of cheapish shampoo at the same time, as if all the family need to be de-nitted it's a lot of shampoo."
Pros
- Fast acting so you can get the job done quickly
- Odourless so no nasty smells to worry about
- No need to comb - simply wash out after 15 minutes
Cons
- Some reviewers mentioned it can take a few washes to fully remove the product
| Volume: | 100ml |
| Number of treatments: | 10 |
- Suitable for up to 10 treatments
- Tested on real heads
- Suitable for ages 6 months+
Best spray-on head lice treatment
AmazonNitWits All-In-One Spray claims to effectively kill both lice and eggs in one easy to use spray. The formula contains an active ingredient called dimethicone, which has shown great results in quickly killing head lice and eggs. To use just spray the solution onto your child's head, ensuring the whole head is covered and leave it to rest for 20 minutes, then rinse the hair, and your child should be lice free.
As well as the spray, NitWits All In One Head Lice Solution includes a nit comb so you don't have to buy one separately. The kid-friendly fragrance should be more pleasant than some treatments and as it doesn't contain any traditional pesticides, it's gentle on young skin.
One review said: "I don't do many reviews but this I have to! My daughter has suffered with nits for about 5 months - she has afro hair. God knows how much I spent on solutions. But I found this and in just 1 treatment they were gone! They fell out in the shower and overnight on her pillow! Strongly recommend"
Pros
- Comes with a comb so no need to buy separately
- Child friendly scent
Cons
- Has to be left on for 20 minutes so some children might get fidgety
| Volume: | 120ml |
- Comes with a comb
- Safety lock to unlock spray
Best overall nit comb for children
AmazonThis Nitty Gritty Nit Comb has micro-spiral grooves to remove any head lice and eggs on your child’s scalp. This can be used alongside your child’s normal shampoo and conditioner, so it's a good option if you’re worried about harsh chemicals on your baby’s scalp.
You can use any head lice treatment or your usual conditioner, then simply part the hair into sections and comb through each section until they're clear of lice and eggs. Instead of using chemicals the Nitty Gritty comb has 33 round-tipped teeth which go through the hair quickly and easily, while the 'micro-spiral' groove removes the lice, nits and unhatched 'live' louse eggs.
Nitty Gritty are so confident that they offer a full refund if you're not happy with the results.
One review said: "We have tried four other combs (in conjunction with shampoos), none of which came close. We spent weeks going over and over the same hairs and I was resorting to using my fingernails! Then I decided to do some homework and saw this comb had great reviews. Desperation led me to the purchase and I would now recommend it to anyone. Hallelujah!"
Pros
- Micro-spiral grooves help to effectively remove lice and eggs
- Effectively removes head lice, nits and eggs
Cons
- Some reviewers found it was less effective on dry hair
| Material: | Metal |
- Micro-spiral grooves
- Easy grip handle
Best short pin comb for head lice treatment
The Acu-Life Short Pin Comb works on all hair types, and glides through your child's wet hair to remove all head lice, nits and unhatched eggs. The short pin design makes it easier to run through hair effectively. It's been used by school nurses for over 50 years, so it's safe to say it's expert-approved!
One review said: "Great value for money! Works like magic! After hair wash just leave the hair conditioner on and keep brushing the hair with this comb. I got rid of my son's nits in the first try. I highly recommend this product. Much better than expensive head lice solutions."
Pros
- Effectively removes head lice, nits and unhatched eggs
- Easy to grip handle makes it simple to use
Cons
- Some found the comb teeth a little short
| Dimensions: | 4.32 x 4.83 x 14.61cm |
- Rounded comb teeth
- Easy to hold handle
Best eco-friendly head lice treatment
AmazonYou might recognise this head lice treatment from Dragon's Den. It was created by a mum in response to struggling to find a head lice treatment that worked but was also kind to the skin and the environment. This head lice treatment has been formulated to be tough on head lice without damaging the scalp and works on all life cycle stages of the nits, even preventing the eggs from developing. But it does all that while avoiding harsh chemicals, is hypoallergenic, and is the only treatment recommended by the British Association of Professional Nannies (BAPN).
It's made from odourless mineral oil solution, is free from perfumes and harmful additives and is not tested on animals. If you're looking for an eco-friendly head lice treatment, this is the one for you. Not only is it the first ever certified eco-friendly head lice, egg and nit treatment on the market, it's packaged in environmentally friendly, sustainable packaging using a 100% recyclable eco-certified bottle made only from plant materials.
One reviewer, Charlotte, said: "After 1 use we have removed all nits and lice, the comb design is so much easier and smoother at collecting them from the hair than the usual designs. The consistency of the liquid also makes it super easy to brush through after a wash. You may need to wash the hair again the next morning to ensure all the liquid is out as it is quite greasy. Completely clean hair this morning though."
Pros
- Eco-friendly
- Hypoallergenic so good for children with allergies or sensitive skin
- Easy to brush through
Cons
- Leaves hair a bit greasy so may need a few washes
| Volume: | 200ml |
- Eco - friendly
- Easy to brush through
- Gentle on the scalp
Best natural head lice treatment
AmazonIf you don't like the idea of putting chemicals on your little one's hair, then this head lice treatment is completely natural but effective in killing head lice and eggs in just 10 minutes. We like that it is a unique blend of active organic plant oils including Coconut & Jojoba and organic essential oils - lavender, clove, tea tree, geranium - and is dermatologically tested, cruelty-free and suitable for vegans.
It's easy to apply using the applicator - simply split dry hair into sections and apply, then leave it to work for 10 minutes before washing out with your normal shampoo. You then use the head lice comb to remove the lice and nits. It's safe for use on all family members over the age of 3 years+.
Chloe, a reviewer, says: "This is such good value. All natural ingredients and lovely smell in my opinion compared to other lice products. Working so far. Dries nicely on hair and leaves no residue or product built up. Arrived well protected and undamaged."
Pros
- No chemicals or ingredients that might irritate some sensitive skin
- Uses natural ingredients like coconut oil and essential oils to kill the lice
- Has a nicer smell than chemical products
Cons
- Some reviewers said the comb wasn't very effective so you might need to buy one separately
| Volume: 100ml | |
| Suitable from: | 3 years |
- Natural ingredients
- Nice smell
- Includes comb
- Kills all head lice
Best lice repellant 3-in-1 shampoo
AmazonThis 3 in 1 shampoo uses essential oils such as tea tree, lemon and eucalyptus - which are all natural repellants - to help repel head lice. In addition, it will leave your little one with lovely clean, tangle-free hair that smells fresh and zesty. It's dermatologically tested so it's safe for your little one.
For extra lice-beating power, follow up with Vosene Head Lice Defence Spray or the new Vosene Apple and Lemon Head Lice defence spray which will help condition and add more of the essential oils that lice hate.
One reviewer, Lauren, says: "Bought for my 3 sons to use age 2,5 & 7. Nice shampoo, foams nicely, no irritation, their hair feels soft afterwards and so far no head lice. We’ve had the dreaded head lice in school letters before but they’ve never caught it, can’t say if that’s definitely down to the shampoo or just luck!"
Pros
- Includes natural repellants
- May deter head lice and prevent them from occurring
- Leaves hair soft and clean
Cons
- Not scientifically proven as a prevention
| Volume: | 250ml |
- Cleans, conditions and detangles
- Includes citronella oil which is a natural repellant
- Leaves hair soft
Best head lice prevention spray
VoseneThe new product from Vosene Kids boasts the same head lice repelling benefits as the original, but now has a new fresh, fruity scent of Apple & Lemon**.**
Vosene Kids specially formulated defence spray is suitable for daily use, and has the added benefit of conditioning and detangling hair to leave it shiny and tangle free. The new fresh and fruity apple and lemon scented formula also contains natural head lice repellent actives, including tea tree leaf, citronella and eucalyptus oil, to help keep head lice at bay. For best results, Vosene recommends using the spray after Vosene Kids 3in1 Shampoo which we recommend above.
To use, spray onto your little ones washed hair, massage in and comb through. Leave in and let hair dry naturally. For extra protection, spray onto collars, hats or hair accessories before school, sports activities and play dates.
Pros
- Beautiful fresh smell of apple and lemon
- Has the added benefit of conditioning and detangling
- Can be used after the 3-in-1 Vosene shampoo
- Uses tea tree leaf, citronella and eucalyptus oil to help ward off head lice
- Dermatologist approved
Cons
The best head lice treatment: FAQs
How to choose the right head lice treatment for you and your family
Choosing the right head lice treatment for your family will come down to a variety of factors as well as your own preferences and priorities. You'll need to decide between products that use chemical treatments and those that have natural ingredients, such as essential oils. Chemical treatments are often more effective but can cause irritation or allergies. Natural options are more gentle but may require more time and effort. Be sure to check if the treatment is safe for all ages, especially for young children or those with sensitive skin.
How to use head lice treatments
The instructions on how to use head lice treatments will vary from product to product so make sure you read the instructions. Traditional treatments usual involve applying the product to dry or damp hair, ensuring that all hair and scalp areas are covered. You then wait the recommended time to ensure it effectively kills the lice before rinsing and combing out the dead lice and nits (the eggs). Most treatments require a follow-up application to kill any newly hatched lice. But as all products will differ, you will need to follow the instructions that are specific to your choice of treatment.
Can you prevent head lice?
Unfortunately, head lice are something that cannot be avoided. You can use preventative head lice shampoo to try to keep head lice away, but that isn't always effective. Alternatively, keep your child's hair tied up or plaited as lice usually stick themselves to loose hair.
You can be on guard for head lice by regularly combing every family member’s hair with a detection comb – this way you’ll be able to treat an infestation fast before it becomes more of a problem.
Do I need to wash bedding if my child has lice?
As head lice can't live in bedding, only on the human head, there is no benefit to washing bedding. While they might hop onto the pillowcase, they quickly dehydrate when they're not on the head. However, it is recommended to wash your little ones bedding set at least once every one to two weeks and it will probably make you feel better to wash them after treating your child's hair and scalp.
Do head lice prefer clean hair ?
You may have heard that head lice prefer clean hair; however, this is a myth. 'In fact, a head lice infestation can affect all types of hair irrespective of its condition and length,' says Dr Leda Kourita.
Can head lice go away on its own?
Unfortunately, head lice will not go away on their own. Without direct treatment to kill the lice and the nits, they'll continue to reproduce and spread. Effective treatments include over-the-counter medicated shampoos, prescription treatments, and thorough combing with a fine-toothed lice comb to remove lice and nits. Without proper treatment, lice can persist indefinitely and continue to cause itching and discomfort.
What is the difference between head lice and nits?
Head lice are tiny grey-brown insects that live in human hair. They are human parasites and need human blood to survive. On the other hand, nits are the white eggshells from which the head lice hatch.
If you see nits in your child's hair, you will likely need to treat them for headlice. Nits are usually found behind the ears and at the back of the neck.
About the experts
Dr Lida Kourita is a practitioner of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, who completed special training, contributing to paediatrics and child health.
Samantha Ball is a Commercial Content Writer and freelanced for the Mother&Baby website for two years before joining the team full-time. She's a mum of two and loves browsing for the best products and cute outfits.