One way to get rid of head lice is to slather the hair and scalp in oil to suffocate them.

Head lice.

These little buggers are tenacious and bloodthirsty. Their offspring (unhatched eggs) are no better, and they bring new meaning to the term “death grip” when it comes to sticking to hair.

But they’re not so tough… when you deprive them of their oxygen.

The easiest way to get rid of head lice is to slather – and I mean, slather your hair and scalp in oil.

Work in it your hair thoroughly and be very generous with the application.

Put a shower cap on and leave it on for as long as possible. The best way to achieve this is to sleep with the cap on.

The next day, shampoo the oil out and rinse with vinegar. Comb out all the nits after washing, and repeat the oiling process if necessary.

And of course, hot wash all your bedding, clothes, and hairbrushes to prevent being re-infected.

Types of oils that will get rid of head lice:

  • Olive oil*
  • Coconut oil*
  • Almond oil*
  • Tea tree oil**
  • Rosemary oil**
  • Lavender oil**

* These three oils have the added benefit of deep conditioning your hair.
** These three oils have been said to be extra-irritating to the head lice.