If you've been diagnosed with head lice, it has no reflection on your cleanliness, according to the Mayo Clinic. Head lice are small, parasitic insects that feed off human blood and live in the hair. School children are the most susceptible to head lice, because they play within close proximity to one another. Consult a doctor to determine the best treatment option for your particular condition. If your doctor approves, use home remedies to treat lice.
Fine-Toothed Comb and Vinegar
For a natural alternative to lice shampoos that kill lice on contact, the Mayo Clinic recommends using a fine-toothed comb and vinegar to kill head lice. Wet the hair completely, then carefully comb through the hair and physically remove the lice and nits. Placing the lice and the comb in a cup of vinegar after each pass will kill the lice. Repeating the process every three to four days for three weeks will ensure that all of the lice have been killed, the Mayo Clinic says.
Hot Water
Bedding, clothing and stuffed animals in the home may contain lice. To effectively kill lice on all washable materials, wash them in the washing machine on the hot cycle, says Dr. Karen E. Burke, a dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon in New York City. Dry the clothing, stuffed animals and bedding on high for 20 minutes or longer to kill any remaining lice, according to the Mayo Clinic. For items like brushes and combs that cannot go in the washing machine, soak for 10 minutes in very hot water.
Petroleum Jelly
In some cases, lice may spread from the scalp to the eyelashes. If this occurs, coat the lashes with a thin layer of petroleum jelly, recommends Dr. Burke. Using a clean tissue or cotton swab, carefully place petroleum jelly on the eyelids and the eyelashes, from root to tip. Repeat twice a day for eight days to effectively kill lice on the eyelashes, Burke says.
