Lice are small insects that take up residence in human hair, causing severe itching and irritation. While most common in children, lice often affect adults as well. There are many over-the-counter and prescription treatments for killing lice and removing the nits (eggs) from the hair, but if you are looking for a more natural, less toxic treatment, you can try mayonnaise. According to Dr. William Sears, author and pediatrician, the mayonnaise treatment works on lice and their eggs by suffocating them.
Step 1
Apply mayonnaise to the hair and scalp. Massage it in and make sure the hair and scalp are completely saturated.
Step 2
Put on shower cap and leave the mayonnaise on overnight. Make sure the shower cap is as tight as possible.
Step 3
Remove the shower cap in the morning and wrap a towel around the shoulders. Using the lice comb, comb through hair to remove lice and nits.
Step 4
Wash hair with the usual shampoo. After the intensive mayonnaise treatment, you should not need to condition the hair.
Step 5
When hair is dry, check for lice and/or eggs once again. If necessary, repeat the mayonnaise treatment. Since this treatment is nontoxic it can be repeated as often as necessary. Nits can take up to two weeks to hatch, so it is advisable to repeat the treatment at least twice a week for two weeks, even if you believe you are free of lice.
Step 6
Wash any towels that were used in the treatment in hot, soapy water, and do the same with the lice comb.
Tips and Warnings
- Wash all bedding and clothing in hot, soapy water until the lice have been removed. Treat upholstery by adding 10 drops of tea tree oil to 1 cup of water in an empty spray bottle, and spraying all affected areas.
- When one family member has lice, all members of the household must be checked and treated for it at the same time. Otherwise, the lice may continue to spread back and forth between household members.
Things You'll Need
- Real mayonnaise
- Shower cap
- Lice comb
- Towel
- Shampoo
