10 Best Head Lice Treatments in the Philippines 2025 | 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
Merry Sun
Nourishing Anti-Lice Shampoo and Conditioner with Antioxidant Care
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
- 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 Head Lice Treatments to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Active Ingredient | Concentration | Formulation | Suitable for Children | Net Content | |||||
1 | Licealiz Shampoo for Lice Control｜Regular | | Gentle and Effective Lice Removal for Sensitive Scalps | Pyrethrin | 2 mg/mL | Shampoo | 60 mL | ||
2 | Oilganics Head Lice Treatment Shampoo｜60mL | | Natural and Gentle Herbal Solution for Lice Control | Quassinoids | 30 mg/mL | Shampoo | 60 mL | ||
3 | Kwell Reformulated Shampoo | | Effective Permethrin Treatment for Head Lice and Eggs | Permethrin | 10 mg/mL | Shampoo | 60 mL | ||
4 | Merry Sun Ultra Guard Wine Therapy | | Nourishing Anti-Lice Shampoo and Conditioner with Antioxidant Care | Resveratrol, Grapeseed Oil | unknown | Shampoo, Conditioner | 20 mL | ||
5 | Zerolice Hair Cleansing Treatment | | Effective and Gentle Shampoo for Lice Removal and Prevention | Andiroba Oil, Tea Tree Oil, Aloe Vera Extract | unknown | Shampoo | 60 mL | ||
6 | Britton Permethrin Lindell Lotion | | Fast-Acting Treatment for Scabies and Head Lice | Permethrin | 50 mg/mL | Topical Lotion | 30 mL | ||
7 | Kwell Reformulated Lotion | | Trusted Permethrin Lotion for Scabies and Crab Lice Treatment | Permethrin | 50 mg/mL | Topical Lotion | 60 mL | ||
8 | Nitolic Head Lice and Nits Treatment with Removal Comb ｜With Removal Comb | | One-Time Effective Head Lice and Nits Treatment | Isopropyl Myristate, Cyclomethicone, Tea Tree Oil, Peppermint Oil, Lavender Oil | unknown | Spray, Emulsion | 50 mL | ||
9 | Joy fashion Lice Terminator Comb With Handle | | Comfortable Grip Comb for Effective Lice and Nit Removal | Comb | |||||
10 | Nit Free Terminator Lice Comb | | Effective Lice and Nit Removal with Durable Stainless Steel Design | Comb | |||||
Gentle and Effective Lice Removal for Sensitive Scalps
Features and benefits:
- Contains pyrethrin, a plant-based ingredient safe for children aged 2 and above, providing effective lice elimination
- Cleanses and conditions hair simultaneously, simplifying hair care routine
- Leaves a soothing coolness that helps relieve itchy scalp discomfort
- Gentle enough for regular use, suitable for sensitive scalps and daily prevention
Reviews mention:
Users appreciate the shampoo’s ability to quickly remove lice and nits while leaving hair feeling fresh and itch-free. Many find the cooling sensation comforting during treatment. Some note that multiple applications may be needed for complete lice removal, but overall it is considered gentle and effective for children.
| Active Ingredient | Pyrethrin |
|---|---|
| Concentration | 2 mg/mL |
| Formulation | Shampoo |
| Suitable for Children | |
| Net Content | 60 mL |
Natural and Gentle Herbal Solution for Lice Control
Features and benefits:
- Contains quassinoids, a natural compound effective in killing lice and dissolving nits’ resin for easier removal
- Includes Mediterranean vinegar to help loosen lice eggs from hair shafts, enhancing treatment effectiveness
- Formulated with AHA-organic acids that condition hair, leaving it soft and manageable after use
- Safe for daily use, non-toxic, and dermatologically tested for sensitive scalps
Reviews mention:
Users commend the shampoo’s natural ingredients and gentle formula, noting it effectively removes lice without harsh chemicals. Many appreciate that it conditions hair well and is safe for repeated use. Some suggest following up with a fine-toothed comb for best results, and a few mention that consistent use over days improves lice control.
| Active Ingredient | Quassinoids |
|---|---|
| Concentration | 30 mg/mL |
| Formulation | Shampoo |
| Suitable for Children | |
| Net Content | 60 mL |
Effective Permethrin Treatment for Head Lice and Eggs
Features and benefits:
- Contains 1% w/w (10 mg/mL) permethrin, a proven insecticide for killing head lice and their eggs
- Formulated for easy application, covering hair and scalp thoroughly for 10 minutes before rinsing
- Suitable for treatment and prevention in individuals at risk of lice infestation
- Safe for use on children over 6 months and adults, with dermatological testing
Reviews mention:
Users report that the shampoo effectively eliminates lice and nits after a single application, with some noting the need for a second treatment for stubborn cases. Many appreciate its straightforward use and fast action. A few users mention mild scalp irritation but generally find it tolerable and effective.
| Active Ingredient | Permethrin |
|---|---|
| Concentration | 10 mg/mL |
| Formulation | Shampoo |
| Suitable for Children | |
| Net Content | 60 mL |
Nourishing Anti-Lice Shampoo and Conditioner with Antioxidant Care
Features and benefits:
- Contains resveratrol, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect and rejuvenate hair and scalp
- Infused with grapeseed oil rich in vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids for shiny, healthy, and hydrated hair
- Combines lice treatment with hair conditioning to reduce dryness and improve manageability
- Suitable for regular use to soothe itchy scalp while helping eliminate lice
Reviews mention:
Users praise the duo for its pleasant scent and the nourishing effect on hair, noting that it leaves hair soft and manageable after treatment. Many appreciate the cooling sensation on the scalp that helps relieve itchiness. Some mention that consistent use is needed for effective lice control, while others recommend pairing it with combing for best results.
| Active Ingredient | Resveratrol, Grapeseed Oil |
|---|---|
| Concentration | unknown |
| Formulation | Shampoo, Conditioner |
| Suitable for Children | |
| Net Content | 20 mL |
Effective and Gentle Shampoo for Lice Removal and Prevention
Features and benefits:
- Formulated to treat and prevent head lice and their eggs, providing comprehensive lice control
- Contains natural ingredients like andiroba oil, tea tree oil, and aloe vera extract that soothe the scalp and condition hair
- Easy-to-use shampoo that cleanses hair thoroughly while targeting lice and nits
- Suitable for regular use to protect those at risk of lice infestation and maintain scalp health
Reviews mention:
Users find this shampoo effective in eliminating lice with consistent use, appreciating its gentle formula that does not irritate the scalp. Many highlight the pleasant scent and the soothing effect on itchy scalps. Some recommend leaving the shampoo on for the full 10 minutes for best results and following up with a fine-toothed comb to remove nits thoroughly.
| Active Ingredient | Andiroba Oil, Tea Tree Oil, Aloe Vera Extract |
|---|---|
| Concentration | unknown |
| Formulation | Shampoo |
| Suitable for Children | |
| Net Content | 60 mL |
Fast-Acting Treatment for Scabies and Head Lice
Features and benefits:
- Contains 5% permethrin lotion, a widely used insecticide that paralyzes and kills lice, mites, and their eggs
- Single application typically effective for head lice treatment, reducing the need for repeated use
- Suitable for treating both scabies and head lice infestations, providing versatile skin and scalp care
- Safe for use on adults and children over 2 months old, with no known teratogenic effects
Reviews mention:
Users commend the lotion’s effectiveness in quickly eliminating lice and relieving itching after one application. Many appreciate its easy-to-apply lotion form that spreads well on the scalp and skin. Some report mild irritation or redness but find it temporary and manageable, emphasizing the product’s overall reliability in treating infestations.
| Active Ingredient | Permethrin |
|---|---|
| Concentration | 50 mg/mL |
| Formulation | Topical Lotion |
| Suitable for Children | |
| Net Content | 30 mL |
Trusted Permethrin Lotion for Scabies and Crab Lice Treatment
Features and benefits:
- Contains 5% permethrin (50 mg/mL), an effective scabicide and pediculicide for eliminating scabies mites and crab lice
- Applied topically to affected areas, targeting mites and lice including hard-to-reach sites like between fingers and toes
- Suitable for adults and children over 2 months, with specific application guidelines for infants and young children
- Clinically proven to relieve itching and clear infestations with proper use
Reviews mention:
Users report effective relief from scabies and lice infestations after using the lotion, appreciating its fast action and ease of application. Many find the lotion soothing and note a significant reduction in itching after treatment. Some mention mild skin irritation but consider it manageable and temporary.
| Active Ingredient | Permethrin |
|---|---|
| Concentration | 50 mg/mL |
| Formulation | Topical Lotion |
| Suitable for Children | |
| Net Content | 60 mL |
NitolicHead Lice and Nits Treatment with Removal Comb ｜ With Removal Comb
One-Time Effective Head Lice and Nits Treatment
Features and benefits:
- Utilizes O-effect® technology for quick, even coverage that kills lice and nits in a single 60-minute application
- Pesticide-free formula that suffocates lice by blocking their breathing, reducing risk of resistance
- Includes a fine-tooth removal comb to easily eliminate dead lice and nits after treatment
- Contains natural oils like tea tree, peppermint, and lavender to soothe the scalp and condition hair
Reviews mention:
Parents and users praise Nitolic for its ease of use and effectiveness in eradicating lice and eggs with just one treatment. Many appreciate the pleasant scent and gentle formula suitable for children as young as two. Some recommend combing thoroughly after treatment to ensure complete removal of nits. Overall, it is viewed as a safe, non-toxic alternative to chemical insecticides.
| Active Ingredient | Isopropyl Myristate, Cyclomethicone, Tea Tree Oil, Peppermint Oil, Lavender Oil |
|---|---|
| Concentration | unknown |
| Formulation | Spray, Emulsion |
| Suitable for Children | |
| Net Content | 50 mL |
Comfortable Grip Comb for Effective Lice and Nit Removal
Features and benefits:
- Fine, closely spaced teeth designed to remove lice and nits thoroughly from hair strands
- Ergonomic handle provides a comfortable, non-slip grip for better control during combing
- Durable plastic construction ensures long-lasting use and easy cleaning
- Compact size makes it convenient for home use and travel
Reviews mention:
Users appreciate the comb’s sturdy handle and effective teeth spacing that help remove lice and nits efficiently. Many find it easy to use on children and adults alike, noting it reduces the time spent on combing. Some suggest using it in combination with lice shampoo for best results, while a few mention that patience is needed for thorough removal.
| Active Ingredient | |
|---|---|
| Concentration | |
| Formulation | Comb |
| Suitable for Children | |
| Net Content |
Effective Lice and Nit Removal with Durable Stainless Steel Design
Features and benefits:
- Micro-grooved, tightly spaced stainless steel teeth catch even the smallest lice eggs for thorough removal
- Long metal teeth with microscopic spiral edges ensure efficient combing through hair
- Rounded edges protect the scalp from irritation during use
- Anti-slip bands on the handle provide a secure grip for better control
Reviews mention:
Users appreciate the comb’s durability and effectiveness in removing lice and nits, noting it works well for both spot checks and deep cleaning. Many find it easy to clean and comfortable to hold, though some suggest pairing it with treatment products for full lice eradication. A few mention the comb is best used with conditioner or oil to ease combing through hair.
| Active Ingredient | |
|---|---|
| Concentration | |
| Formulation | Comb |
| Suitable for Children | |
| Net Content |
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｜Shampoo for Lice Control｜Regular
No. 2: Oilganics ｜Head Lice Treatment Shampoo｜60mL
No. 3: Kwell｜Reformulated Shampoo
No. 4: Merry Sun｜Ultra Guard Wine Therapy
No. 5: Zerolice｜Hair Cleansing Treatment
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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