10 Best Head Lice Treatments in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
As kids and even as grown-ups, it's no fun to have your crowning glory infested with lice and its army of scalp-itching, minute variants. Luckily for our schoolchildren, these blood-feeding parasites can say goodbye to their hair with head lice treatments. Many items can be slathered onto the scalp as you perform morning routines, while others have a more sophisticated approach to terminating those "kuto."
This article aims at directing you to a quick solution to your insect-induced head-scratching. Read on for our buying with comments from dermatologist, Dr. Meg Sison to find out what to expect when using a head lice treatment and what ingredients to look for in local brands. Our team also collated a list of the best head lice treatments available online for your buying convenience.
Quick List - Top Head Lice Treatments
Licealiz (Pyrethrin)
Treats Lice and Nits While Providing Cooling Relief for Itchy Scalps
Licealiz (Pyrethrin)
Gentle Yet Effective Lice Treatment for Sensitive Scalps
Oilganics
Lice Treatment With Natural Ingredients From Botanical Sources
Dr. Sison is a board-certified dermatologist who practices in the Philippines and sees both medical and cosmetic dermatological cases on skin, hair, and nails.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
- Why You Can Trust Us
- Debunking Myths About Lice
- 10 Best Lead Lice Treatment to Buy Online
- No. 1Licealiz (Pyrethrin) | Head Lice Treatment Shampoo｜Soothing Coolness
- No. 2Merry Sun | Ultra Guard Wine Therapy Duo
- No. 3Licealiz (Pyrethrin) | Head Lice Treatment Shampoo｜Regular
- No. 4Oilganics | Head Lice Treatment Shampoo｜60mL
- No. 5Nitolic® | Head Lice Treatment System｜With Removal Comb
- 5 more products
- Frequently Asked Questions Answered By Dr. Meg Sison
- Will Head Lice Go Away on Their Own or Is It Better to Get Rid of Them as Soon as You or Your Child Gets Infected?
- What to Do When Lice Keep Coming Back?
- Do Head Lice Infest Other Parts of the Body With Hair?
- Hygiene Is King, Especially Among Kids
Why You Can Trust Us
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
Debunking Myths About Lice
By word of mouth, several myths about lice have haunted children for many years. In this section, we have cited head lice facts from Consumer Reports to debunk the misconceptions we might have had about head lice.
First, dirty hair does not make an automatic breeding ground for head lice, contrary to beliefs that they thrive in unhygienic hair. Lice don't care where they breedーclean or unclean hair. The Filipino household's go-to retort, "Kapag di pa nawala 'yang kuto mo, lilipad ka na talaga" is so untrue because lice do not have wingsーthey cannot take you with them on their flights.
Lice crawl from an infested head's shoulder to the shoulder or hair on another yet to be infested. Also, contrary to popular belief, those critters can be killed only by using over-the-counter pesticides. Advocates of the wet-combing technique have attested to be effective in removing loose, especially for younger patients with sensitive scalps who might find the treatment uncomfortable.
Head lice infestations occur worldwide and are most common in children between the ages of 3 and 12 years. Transmission occurs by means of direct head-to-head contact. Indirect transmission occurs through combs, brushes, blowdryers, hair accessories, upholstery, pillows, bedding, helmets, or other headgear.
Head lice are blood-sucking, wingless, highly host-specific insects. They can neither fly nor jump from one individual to another.
How to Choose a Head Lice Treatment – Buying Guide
When either you, your children, or anyone else in the family has their head infested with lice, there's no need to panic. Thankfully, you can contain the spread of head lice in more ways than one.
Get to Know the Potent Ingredients in Head Lice Treatments
When choosing, look for these generic names in head lice treatments as their potency reveals what lice type or forms they are most effective for. These components, technically known as pesticides, are typically found in over-the-counter head lice treatments. Also, take note of the ages of children these pesticides are approved for use.
Pyrethrin Is Safe to Use for Children 2 Years and Up
This compound is extracted from chrysanthemum flowers. Pyrethrin acts as a defense mechanism for protection against pests and insects, exuding a toxic effect lethal to the insect's nervous system. Fortunately, pyrethrin makes for a highly effective lice treatment, especially for kids ages 2 and above.
However, this is most effective for killing live lice and not lice eggs. Extra precaution should be taken by people allergic to chrysanthemum as it will aggravate the allergies in the treatment process. This means that you need a second treatment to kill the eggs which have hatched.
Pediculicides remain the most effective treatment for head lice. Pyrethrin is recommended to be applied on the scalp for 10 minutes to treat head lice. However, caution should be done on patients with known allergies to chrysanthemums, ragweed, or related plants.
Permethrin Lotion Can Be Used for Babies Age 2 Months Old
Similar to pyrethrin, this permethrin is ideal even for younger patients – babies as young as 2 months old. The selling point to this ingredient has to be its potency in killing both live lice and nits or lice eggs. As permethrin leaves a residue on the hair or scalp, it kills the freshly hatched eggs which were not killed during the initial treatment process.
Permethrin is milder compared to other over-the-counter head lice treatments, so you might want to do a second treatment as instructed, normally 9 to 10 days after the first application.
Permethrin is available as 1% lotion or as 5% cream. The 1% lotion is applied to damp hair for 10 minutes, rinsed then repeated in 7 days. The 5% cream is applied topically overnight. It is recommended to repeat all insecticidal treatments after 1 week because of variable ovicidal activity, possible lack of patient compliance, growing resistance to pediculicides, and the potential of reinfestation.
Benzyl Alcohol Works for Adults and Babies 6 Months of Age and Older
Unlike the first two ingredients, benzyl alcohol lotions are available only by prescription. For those who have had used it prior, it would be a gentle reminder not to use this on toddlers less than 6 months old. It has been found to be safe to use for adults not older than 60.
It also tends to kill only live lice and not the eggs. As a white topical lotion, this compound can be irritating on the scalp and has to be left on the head for 10 minutes before combing out the lice and eggs. On the good side, though, this has an aromatic scent.
Benzyl alcohol lotions are applied to dry hair for 10 minutes, rinsed then repeated in 7 days. This is dosed by hair length, so it can be costly. It can be used in pregnant and lactating women, and it is approved for children older than age 6 months.
Ivermectin Comes in Oral and Topical Medications
In its tablet form, ivermectin is highly effective and safe against head lice. However, if you are pregnant or your child weighs less than 15 kilograms, the oral dose is not recommended. It is still best that you consult with your health care provider.
Ivermectin lotions, on the other hand, are FDA-approved for use on children 6 months of age and above. Like the previously mentioned medications, it also is more efficient in killing hatched lice and not the lice eggs. This can be applied to the patient's dry hair even without thorough lice combing.
Topical ivermectin 0.5% lotion is approved for patients older than age 6 months. It is applied to hair once, although most experts recommend reapplication a week later. Oral ivermectin has very good efficacy on adult lice, although it is inferior to permethrin. It is not ovicidal, hence nits are safe until they hatch. It is also not recommended for pregnant females or children weighing less than 15 kg.
Malathion Lotions Instantly Kills Lice and Eggs
If you prefer a more instantaneous result in lice treatments, look for lice treatments with this compound. Like the two preceding medications, this also requires a prescription. Known to actively remove live lice and nits, malathion is recommended for use on children 6 years of age and above.
Ideal for application on wet hair, applying this lotion must be with adult supervision making sure to keep a distance for smoke or heating appliances, such as flat irons and hair dryers. Its potency has the adverse effect of irritating the scalp so you shouldn't overdo the application.
Malathion is applied to dry hair and left on for 8 to 12 hours allowing it to dry naturally. Using a shampoo and a lice comb is recommended afterward. Take note that this is highly flammable, so it is advised to avoid hair dryer or open flame while hair is wet. Caution is advised because of burning or stinging at sites of eroded skin.
For Children With Sensitive Scalp, Consider Solutions With Natural Ingredients
Along with combing, essential oils have proved to be a natural alternative to most lice pesticides. The most common oil components of non-medical formulations are coconut, tea tree, and olive oil, to mention a few.
Petroleum jelly and mayonnaise users also claim to have noticed a lice-smothering feature, allowing for an easier combing while alleviating the itch and irritation caused by the insects.
Children and adults with sensitive scalps are easy prey to itching when using a lice treatment on their hair. Besides rinsing the solution thoroughly, opt for treatments that are fragrance-free or marketed with natural ingredients. Also, always use the potent compounds appropriate for your and your child's age.
There are a number of reports with occlusive and suffocation methods, such as the application of petrolatum, mayonnaise, dimethicone, vegetable oil, mineral oil, hair pomade, and olive oil. These products slow the movements of adult lice and may allow them to be more easily combed out of the scalp, but these substances are usually not lethal to lice.
Stainless Steel Combs With Padded Handles Yield to Better Results
With or without a scalp lotion lice treatment, a lice comb can already help you get rid of those nits and lice from your kid's hair. This secondary tool has its own set of variables to consider when you want a head lice treatment to work double-time for your kid or you.
Lice combs with metal teeth are the best choice as they are more sturdy than plastic or wooden ones. Make sure that you select those with longer teeth, closely knit and riveted. Guaranteed long-lasting, it makes for easy removal of lice and nits. Preferably, you'll want a lice comb to remove the lice and their eggs even without slathering lice treatment on the hair.
When using a lotion or other solutions on the head, combing through the hair may be slippery for you. To keep your grip as you comb, get ones with thick handles for added support. It allows for more room to readjust your handling of the comb itself as you brush through the hair.
Lice combs are recommended because they facilitate mechanical movement of the lice and nits in the scalp. Combs and brushes should be washed in very hot waterー65°C or 149°Fーor may be coated with the pediculicide for 15 minutes to prevent reinfestation.
10 Best Lead Lice Treatment to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Active Ingredient | Concentration | Formulation | Suitable for Children | Net Content | |||||
1 | Licealiz (Pyrethrin) Head Lice Treatment Shampoo｜Soothing Coolness | | Treats Lice and Nits While Providing Cooling Relief for Itchy Scalps | Pyrethrin | 2mg/mL | Shampoo | 60 mL | ||
2 | Merry Sun Ultra Guard Wine Therapy Duo | | Eliminates Lice and Promotes Healthy, Shiny Hair | Pyrethrum Extract | Not Specified | Shampoo, Conditioner | 20 mL | ||
3 | Licealiz (Pyrethrin) Head Lice Treatment Shampoo｜Regular | | Gentle Yet Effective Lice Treatment for Sensitive Scalps | Pyrethrin | 2mg/mL | Shampoo | 60 mL | ||
4 | Oilganics Head Lice Treatment Shampoo｜60mL | | Lice Treatment With Natural Ingredients From Botanical Sources | Quassinoids | 30 mg/mL | Shampoo | 60 mL | ||
5 | Nitolic® Head Lice Treatment System｜With Removal Comb | | Single-Application Lice Treatment With a Fine-Tooth Comb Included | Isopropyl Myristate, Cyclomethicone | Not Specified | Spray, Emulsion | 70 mL | ||
6 | Kwell® (Permethrin) Shampoo Reformulated | | Fast-Acting Permethrin-Infused Shampoo for Head Lice Removal | Permethrin | 10mg/mL | Shampoo | 60 mL | ||
7 | Stainless Steel Lice and Nit Comb | | Effective Lice and Nit Removal With Precision Stainless Steel Comb | Not Applicable | Not Applicable | Comb | Not Applicable | ||
8 | Diwata Kuto Less Herbal Oil | | Removes Lice and Dandruff While Leaving Your Hair Nourished | Neem Seed Oil | Not Specified | Oil | 60 mL | ||
9 | Nix® Crème Rinse | | Provides 14-Day Protection Against Lice Reinfestation After Removal | Permethrin | 280mg/mL | Cream | 59.15 mL | ||
10 | Zerolice Hair Cleansing Treatment | | Eliminates and Prevents Lice Infestation With Andiroba and Tea Tree Oils | Andiroba Oil, Tea Tree Oil | Not Specified | Shampoo | 60 mL | ||
Licealiz (Pyrethrin)Head Lice Treatment Shampoo ｜ Soothing Coolness
Treats Lice and Nits While Providing Cooling Relief for Itchy Scalps
This gentle shampoo is tough on lice and nits yet soothing on the scalp. Unlike harsh chemical treatments, Licealiz uses pyrethrin, a plant-based ingredient safe for children as young as two. Plus, it leaves a cool and refreshing feeling, making the treatment process more comfortable, especially for little ones.
This all-in-one solution cleanses and conditions hair while eliminating lice and nits. It can even replace your child's regular shampoo and conditioner, simplifying hair washing. Reviews say that with this product, you can effectively get rid of lice and nits quickly, leaving hair refreshed and itch-free!
| Active Ingredient | Pyrethrin |
|---|---|
| Concentration | 2mg/mL |
| Formulation | Shampoo |
| Suitable for Children | |
| Net Content | 60 mL |
Eliminates Lice and Promotes Healthy, Shiny Hair
Moreover, the formula is infused with red wine extract that’s rich in resveratrol, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect and rejuvenate your scalp. It also includes grapeseed oil, which is high in vitamin E and omega-6 content for an added boost. Customers rave about its effectiveness and delightful scent.
| Active Ingredient | Pyrethrum Extract |
|---|---|
| Concentration | Not Specified |
| Formulation | Shampoo, Conditioner |
| Suitable for Children | |
| Net Content | 20 mL |
Gentle Yet Effective Lice Treatment for Sensitive Scalps
Additionally, it has a fragrant scent and conditioning formula, making your hair feel clean and refreshed. Users find this product effective against head lice and leaves hair feeling smooth. Families dealing with lice problems highly rate this product for its desired results.
| Active Ingredient | Pyrethrin |
|---|---|
| Concentration | 2mg/mL |
| Formulation | Shampoo |
| Suitable for Children | |
| Net Content | 60 mL |
Lice Treatment With Natural Ingredients From Botanical Sources
For those seeking a natural solution to head lice, Oilganics Head Lice Treatment Shampoo offers a gentle yet effective option. This herbal blend relies on quassinoids derived from the quassia amara plant, a naturally occurring lice killer. The formulation also includes Mediterranean vinegar and AHA-organic acids to disrupt the lice life cycle.
With its botanical ingredients, this gradual lice treatment is a popular choice among parents. However, reviews suggest it may require multiple applications for total eradication of lice. Nevertheless, this product is safe for daily use compared to harsher alternatives, making it ideal for preventing lice outbreaks or treating sensitive scalps.
| Active Ingredient | Quassinoids |
|---|---|
| Concentration | 30 mg/mL |
| Formulation | Shampoo |
| Suitable for Children | |
| Net Content | 60 mL |
Nitolic®Head Lice Treatment System ｜ With Removal Comb
Single-Application Lice Treatment With a Fine-Tooth Comb Included
Manufactured in Poland and distributed in the Philippines by Boie, this head lice treatment system provides a comprehensive kit to combat infestation. It includes a 50 mL spray, a 20 mL nit remover, and a fine-tooth comb to eliminate lice and eggs. Additionally, it offers a 20 mL laundry additive to remove these parasites from fabrics.
Nitolic's lice treatment formula is a safe, silicone-based, and pesticide-free alternative to traditional treatments. It works by smothering and dehydrating lice in all stages, from eggs to adults, ensuring complete eradication in just one application. Parents praise the product for its ease of use, pleasant scent, and effectiveness, especially for kids as young as two.
| Active Ingredient | Isopropyl Myristate, Cyclomethicone |
|---|---|
| Concentration | Not Specified |
| Formulation | Spray, Emulsion |
| Suitable for Children | |
| Net Content | 70 mL |
Fast-Acting Permethrin-Infused Shampoo for Head Lice Removal
Kwell® (Permethrin) Shampoo Reformulated guarantees to eliminate head lice and their eggs in just one application. This powerful permethrin formula effectively kills the parasites on contact to tackle the infestation. You can even use this product on children as young as six months old.
While this shampoo combats lice head-on, it's also suitable for those at risk of infestation. Reviewers note that it smells like medicine, but the scent is tolerable. This product has been tried and tested by users over the years, earning numerous positive feedback online.
| Active Ingredient | Permethrin |
|---|---|
| Concentration | 10mg/mL |
| Formulation | Shampoo |
| Suitable for Children | |
| Net Content | 60 mL |
Effective Lice and Nit Removal With Precision Stainless Steel Comb
Effectively fight head lice with this affordable stainless steel lice and nit comb! Featuring closely spaced, sturdy metal teeth, this comb is designed to remove lice and nits at various hair angles. It also allows you to work lice treatments thoroughly through the scalp and between hair strands, maximizing effectiveness.
The handle boasts an anti-slip grip for better control, even on stubborn hair. Plus, the rounded teeth ensure a gentle combing experience that protects your scalp from scratching or tearing. Praised by users for its functionality and ease of use, this portable and easy-to-store lice comb is a must-have.
| Active Ingredient | Not Applicable |
|---|---|
| Concentration | Not Applicable |
| Formulation | Comb |
| Suitable for Children | |
| Net Content | Not Applicable |
Removes Lice and Dandruff While Leaving Your Hair Nourished
Struggling with head lice on your children or yourself? Diwata Kuto Less Herbal Oil is for you. It uses a blend of essential oils, madre cacao extract, neem seed oil, extra virgin olive oil, and virgin coconut oil to eliminate both adult lice and their eggs, preventing future infestations.
Beyond eliminating lice, this treatment boasts additional benefits. Acting as an anti-dandruff shampoo, it nourishes the scalp and keeps it itch-free. Moreover, buyers say the herbal oil leaves hair smoother and healthier after application. Try it out for a gentle, budget-friendly solution!
| Active Ingredient | Neem Seed Oil |
|---|---|
| Concentration | Not Specified |
| Formulation | Oil |
| Suitable for Children | |
| Net Content | 60 mL |
Provides 14-Day Protection Against Lice Reinfestation After Removal
Nix® Crème Rinse claims to eliminate lice and their eggs with just one application, even for stubborn cases. Its maximum-strength formula with permethrin is gentle enough for children's scalps, making it ideal for treating those as young as two months old. Plus, it offers 14-day protection to prevent lice from coming back.
This product also comes with a special nit removal comb that allows you to thoroughly remove lice and nits from hair after rinsing. This combination provides effective and convenient lice treatment for your family. While users suggest checking for lice again after a week due to possible unhatched eggs, they praise the product's effectiveness.
| Active Ingredient | Permethrin |
|---|---|
| Concentration | 280mg/mL |
| Formulation | Cream |
| Suitable for Children | |
| Net Content | 59.15 mL |
Eliminates and Prevents Lice Infestation With Andiroba and Tea Tree Oils
Even better, you can use this product on those who are at risk of head lice infestation as a preventative measure. Users rave about ZeroLice, praising its effectiveness and gentle care for the scalp. See the results for yourself and join the satisfied users!
| Active Ingredient | Andiroba Oil, Tea Tree Oil |
|---|---|
| Concentration | Not Specified |
| Formulation | Shampoo |
| Suitable for Children | |
| Net Content | 60 mL |
Frequently Asked Questions Answered By Dr. Meg Sison
Time to put a stop to that kuto and itch! Read more below as Dr. Meg Sison answers some of the most asked questions about head lice treatments.
Will Head Lice Go Away on Their Own or Is It Better to Get Rid of Them as Soon as You or Your Child Gets Infected?
Head lice do not go away on their own. It is best to treat the child right away to avoid complications such as secondary bacterial infection of the scalp.
What to Do When Lice Keep Coming Back?
It is advised to repeat the treatment of head lice after 1 week for the reasons stated above. It is also recommended to treat all the children in school who have head lice to avoid reinfestation.
Do Head Lice Infest Other Parts of the Body With Hair?
Pediculosis can also occur in other body parts, and this is called body louse or pediculosis corporis. This is caused by a different species of lice called Pediculosis humanus. Pediculosis can also affect the mustache, beard, underarm hair, eyelashes, eyebrows, and pubic area. This is caused by the crab louse or Pediculosis pubis.
More Tips From Dr. Meg Sison
If over-the-counter treatments do not help treat your child's head lice, it's always best to consult a board-certified dermatologist.
Hygiene Is King, Especially Among Kids
Just because lice do not necessarily thrive in dirty hair does not mean kids have the license to be unhygienic and sour-smelling. Load up on these items for items so your kids can enjoy the summer quarantine smelling and feeling fresh!
Author: A. Ugay
Re-editor: D. Trinidad
Reviewed by: Dermatologist, Dr. Meg Sison
Top 5 Head Lice Treatments
No. 1: Licealiz (Pyrethrin)｜Head Lice Treatment Shampoo｜Soothing Coolness
No. 2: Merry Sun｜Ultra Guard Wine Therapy Duo
No. 3: Licealiz (Pyrethrin)｜Head Lice Treatment Shampoo｜Regular
No. 4: Oilganics ｜Head Lice Treatment Shampoo｜60mL
No. 5: Nitolic®｜Head Lice Treatment System｜With Removal Comb
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
Most ViewedFeatured Rankings Similar to Head lice treatments
Search by category
Beauty
Body care, Makeup, SkincareHealth
Aromatherapy and essential oils , Beauty supplements, Medical supplies and accessoriesHousehold goods
Air treatment, Bath and shower supplies, BlanketsPCs and laptops
Computer accessories, Computer components, Desktop pcsHome appliances and electronics
Air conditioners and coolers, Air treatment, Blenders, mixers, and food processorsCameras
Camera supplies, Digital cameras, Drones and multirotorsFood and drinks
Alcoholic beverages, Baked goods and desserts, BakingKitchen supplies
Baking tools, Coffee and tea accessories, Food containersClothing
Women's tops, Brands and shops, Men's coats and jacketsShoes
Men's shoes, Other shoes and footwear, Outdoor footwearAccessories
Bags, Accessories and jewelry, BeltsMom and baby
Baby books and toys, Baby food and snacks, Baby suppliesInterior and furniture
Beds, Carpets and rugs and mats, ChairsHobbies
Animes, Arts and crafts, Board gamesOutdoor
Camping beds and cots, Camping stoves, CoolersDIY and tools
Sports and fitness
Accessories, Badminton, BasketballPets
Cat supplies, Dog supplies, Fish and aquarium suppliesBooks, CDs, and DVDs
Books and magazines, CDs, Linguistics, dictionaries, and phrase booksGames
Console accessories, PC and console gamesCars and motorcycles
Car accessories, Car seats, Car suppliesGifts
Christmas-related gifts, Gifts for kids, Gifts for menHome improvement and tools
Flooring, Door hardware and locks, ElectricalSmartphones and tablets
Smartphone accessories, Smartphones, StorageBanking and finance
Credit cards, Debit cards, Services and appsInsurance
Car insurance, Life insurance, Medical insuranceAudio
Earphones, Gaming, HeadphonesSmartphone applications
Business apps, Dating apps, Education appsOthers
Others, Others, Merch