Lice are never a welcome visitor. Whether you’re a parent dealing with an outbreak at your child’s school or an adult who’s somehow picked them up, you want them gone as quickly as possible. While there are many over-the-counter treatments available, people often look for home remedies first. One of the more curious ones that’s gained attention over the years is the idea of using mouthwash. So this raises the question, can Listerine kill lice?

Listerine is an antiseptic mouthwash that contains ingredients like alcohol, menthol, and eucalyptol which are ingredients that do have strong, irritating properties. The theory is that these ingredients can suffocate or stun lice when applied directly to the scalp. But will Listerine kill lice completely? That’s a more complicated answer.

What It Might Do

When applied to the hair and scalp, Listerine may temporarily stun lice due to its strong alcohol content and cooling agents. Some people report that soaking the hair in Listerine, covering it with a shower cap, and leaving it on for an extended period can make lice less active or easier to comb out. However, this effect is likely temporary. There is no scientific evidence showing that Listerine is an effective or permanent lice treatment. More importantly, while it may stun the adult lice, it has no effect on the lice eggs (nits), which are usually the hardest part of an infestation to eliminate.

Another issue is safety. Listerine is not intended for use on the scalp or in large quantities. Applying it in this way may cause skin irritation, dryness, or even chemical burns, especially in young children or people with sensitive skin. The fumes can also be strong, and using it under a shower cap for long periods may pose inhalation risks.

Alternatives

Over-the-counter shampoos and lotions that contain permethrin or pyrethrin are commonly used and considered safe when used as directed. These medications target both adult lice and, in some cases, the nits.

Manual removal is also important. Using a fine-toothed lice comb after treatment helps remove both lice and eggs. Repeating the treatment and combing process after several days is usually recommended to ensure all stages of the lice lifecycle are addressed.

For those looking for more natural alternatives, some essential oils like tea tree or neem oil have been studied for their effectiveness, though these should also be used with caution and guidance from a healthcare provider.

Conclusion

Listerine might temporarily affect live lice due to its strong ingredients, but it is not a reliable or medically recommended treatment. More importantly, it does not address the root of the problem which are the lice eggs and how it can pose safety concerns when misused.

If you’re dealing with a lice outbreak, it’s best to rely on treatments that are proven, safe, and designed for the job. When in doubt, speak with your pharmacist or doctor for guidance on how to get rid of lice effectively and safely.