Does Tea Tree Oil Kill Head Lice?
Tea tree oil has gained a reputation as a natural remedy for all sorts of ailments, from acne to dandruff, but can it really kill head lice?
Feb 21, 2026 · 4 min read
TL;DR
Tea tree oil has some insecticidal properties, but evidence for head lice is mixed. It's in many products, but concentration and formulation matter. Silicone-based products and wet combing are more reliable.
Tea tree oil is in a lot of head lice products – so it works, right?
Tea tree oil is often added to shampoos and sprays. Some lab studies suggest it can affect lice, but real-world results vary. Products may combine it with other ingredients, so it's hard to attribute success to tea tree alone.
What does the NHS say about tea tree oil for head lice?
The NHS doesn't recommend tea tree oil as a first-line treatment. Proven options are wet combing and silicone- or oil-based products. If you want to try tea tree, use a properly formulated product, not undiluted oil. Not sure? Check first. For hands-on help, find a clinic near you.