What is the real deal about tea tree oil and lice?  Can it get rid of lice?  Let’s look at this common misconception.

Tea tree oil is also known as Melaleuca alternifolia.   It has many wonderful properties but as a lice treatment is just doesn’t work! Tea tree oil does not get rid of lice nor does it kill lice.   At Lice Geeks we get many clients telling us they used tea tree oil as a treatment but after frustration realized it didn’t work and then they book a lice removal treatment with us.

Why doesn’t it work as a lice treatment?  There are a few reasons why it doesn’t work and the major one is that it has been hampered by the overuse of over the counter products which have cause lice to build a resistance.  This resistance has cause lice to become “Super Lice” therefore the oil won’t kill the lice or get rid of the lice eggs.

Tea tree oil can be used as a preventative measure.  But if you already have lice it just won’t work.  When lice have already established their squad on the head tea tree oil will not make them leave.   

 When should you use tea tree oil for lice? 

The best time to use this oil is when you get a note home from school stating that someone in the class has lice.   When someone in your household has lice and you don’t want others to get it.  But remember never use it directly on the skin; it should be diluted before use.

Don’t rely on schools to send home notes! It is best to do lice checks once a week.   Do a weekly check behind the ears, at the nape of the neck and in the bang area.  It is the best way to contain a lice outbreak.  If you are not sure contact us at Lice Geeks and we will be happy to give you a free diagnosis.