As disturbing as it sounds, head lice are becoming resistant to the chemicals found in the most common lice treatments. Research has shown that up to 90 percent of lice infestations do not respond to treatments that contain permethrin pyrethrins. Fortunately, there are several alternative, natural treatments available that are not only very effective but are also much safer for your family.

One effective treatment for headlice involves tea tree oil. Tea trees are native to Australia and produce a fragrant oil with antifungal and vermicidal properties. Visit your local health food store to find a lice treatment with tea tree. Popular tea tree treatments include special shampoos, conditioners, and hair oils.

A unique way to get rid of headlice that is becoming increasingly popular these days is to use mayonnaise. The theory is that the oil in the mayonnaise smothers the lice and kills them. The method is to apply a thick layer of mayonnaise to the hair and then cover it with a shower cap and leave it overnight. The next day the hair must be combed with a lice comb, and then shampooed. The treatment may need to be repeated several times.

Another effective, though severe treatment, that should be discussed is shaving the child's head for lice removal. When the hair is really short, there isn't enough space for the lice to live. Plus, it is easier to comb through the hair to remove lice and nits. Please be sure your child will be alright with their new buzz cut before getting out the clippers.

Finally, a viable treatment involves simply repeatedly combing lice and nits from the child's head. This treatment will need to be repeated twice daily for up to two weeks, but promises certain success without use of chemicals. However, it can be time intensive, so many parents use this treatment only as a last resort.

Traditional chemical-based treatments for headlice infestation can pollute your home environment and be hazardous to your family. Not only that, but they can be unsuccessful. Chemical treatments can even give birth to more resistant strains of head lice. On the other hand, natural home remedies for head lice are safe and successful.