Best Lice Shampoos & Rinses of 2026

Bonnie Salem Avatar
Bonnie Salem
Last Updated: Jan 27, 2026

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Lice shampoos and rinses are a common solution for eliminating head lice. These products typically contain ingredients such as pyrethrins or permethrin, which work to kill lice and their eggs. Some formulas may also include essential oils or other natural ingredients for added effectiveness. It is important to follow the instructions carefully when using lice shampoos and rinses, as they may need to be applied multiple times and left on for a specific amount of time to be effective. It is also important to thoroughly comb through the hair after treatment to remove any remaining lice or eggs.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

RID One & Done Ivermectin Head Lice Treatment Cover #TOP 1
RID One & Done Ivermectin Head Lice Treatment
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Lice Treatment Kit by Lice Clinics Cover #TOP 2
Lice Treatment Kit by Lice Clinics
ftb score rating icon 9.8
RID Super Max 5-in-1 Complete Lice Treatment Kit Cover #TOP 3
RID Super Max 5-in-1 Complete Lice Treatment Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Lice Shampoos & Rinses

#TOP 1

RID One & Done Ivermectin Head Lice Treatment

RID
Clear
RID One & Done Ivermectin Head Lice Treatment Cover
RID One & Done, Just One Application Head Lice Treatment, No Combing Required, Prescription Strength Ivermectin Lotion for Children & Adults, Eliminates Super Lice & Renders Eggs Non Viable

The RID One & Done Lice Treatment offers an easy and effective solution for head lice. You only need one application to fully eliminate lice, including the tough super lice and their eggs, so there’s no need for a second treatment. It also removes the hassle of nit combing, saving you time and effort since the treatment works without having to comb out eggs. Powered by prescription-strength ivermectin lotion, this treatment kills lice in just 10 minutes, giving you fast relief. This makes RID One & Done Lice Treatment a convenient and powerful choice for getting rid of lice quickly and easily.

What We Like
Easy to use
Clear instructions
Works in one application
No strong odor
Effective on thick or curly hair
What We Don't Like
Price slightly high
May require extra tube for long hair
#TOP 2

Lice Treatment Kit by Lice Clinics

Lice Treatment Kit by Lice Clinics Cover
Lice Treatment Kit by Lice Clinics-Guaranteed Cure for Super Lice-Safe, Non-Toxic (Complete Kit with 5.25oz Shampoo, Metal Comb & More)

The Lice Treatment Kit by Lice Clinics is an effective and non-toxic solution for lice treatment. The kit includes a liquid gel that can kill both lice and super lice, a no-mess applicator, and a premium metal head lice comb. The non-toxic formula makes it safe for both kids and adults. Additionally, the kit comes with a pleasant fresh pear blossom scent.

What We Like
Easy application and comb
Pleasant scent
Gentle on scalp
Highly effective results
Works on long, thick hair
What We Don't Like
Requires multiple washes
Some may need extra bottles
#TOP 3

RID Super Max 5-in-1 Complete Lice Treatment Kit

RID
80013
3 Piece Set
RID Super Max 5-in-1 Complete Lice Treatment Kit Cover
RID Super Max Lice Treatment Kit, Kills Lice & Super Lice & Eggs + 24/7 Lice Defense, Pesticide Free, 3.4 FL OZ Solution + 6.8 FL OZ Daily Defense Shampoo & Conditioner + Nit Removal Comb

The RID Super Max 5-in-1 Complete Lice Treatment Kit offers a variety of features to help eliminate head lice and prevent them from returning. This kit is clinically proven to be more effective than leading pesticide ingredients and offers ongoing 24/7 lice defense. It is gentle on kids and contains no harsh chemicals or pesticides. The 3 piece kit includes dual-action lice treatment solution, 100% effective nit removal comb, and daily defense shampoo and conditioner.

What We Like
Easy application process
Includes comb and daily shampoo
Mild or no odor
Effective multiple-use treatment
Recommended for international families
What We Don't Like
May require repeated treatments
Some lice may survive initial use
#TOP 4

Nix Lice Treatment & Prevention Kit

Nix
PR6000490
Prevention Kit
Nix Lice Treatment & Prevention Kit Cover
Nix Lice Treatment & Prevention Kit, All-in-One Shampoo, 4 fl oz, with Lice Removal Comb and Lice Prevention Daily Leave-in Spray, 6 fl oz

Nix Lice Treatment & Prevention Kit is an all-in-one solution to combat lice. It includes a shampoo that kills lice and eggs, a lice comb to remove dead lice and eggs, and a daily leave-in spray to prevent future infestations. The shampoo cleans and conditions hair without any additional steps. The prevention spray repels superlice and provides long-lasting protection.

What We Like
Fast and effective treatment
Easy application process
Safe for children
Strong lice removal comb
Long-lasting scent
What We Don't Like
Second application often recommended
#TOP 5

Fairy Tales Rosemary Repel Duo

RRSSD
Fairy Tales Rosemary Repel Duo Cover
Fairy Tales Rosemary Repel Shampoo, 12 fl oz. & Conditioning Spray, 8 fl oz. Duo Kids Like the Smell, Lice Do Not

The Fairy Tales Lice Defense Duo includes a shampoo and conditioning spray designed to clean and untangle hair while keeping it smelling great. The special blend of essential oils, including rosemary and tea tree, not only pleases kids with its scent but also helps protect against lice. Additionally, jojoba, chamomile, and lavender extracts work to keep the scalp hydrated and soothed. This duo is gentle enough for daily use without any harsh chemicals, making it a safe choice for your child's hair care routine.

What We Like
Effective lice prevention
Pleasant scent
Good detangling and conditioning
Peace of mind for parents
Works on thick, wavy hair
What We Don't Like
Strong tea tree oil smell
#TOP 6

Vamousse Lice Defense Daily Shampoo

VM13.5oz
Vamousse Lice Defense Daily Shampoo Cover
Vamousse Head Lice Defense Daily Shampoo, Use After Exposure or Treatment, Prevents Lice Infestation, No Parabens, Sulfates or Dyes, Family Size, 13.5 Oz

Vamousse Lice Defense Shampoo is your go-to solution for lice prevention and treatment. Firstly, it effectively eliminates residual lice and stops re-infestation. Secondly, its powerful ingredients kill lice and eggs while being gentle on your hair. Thirdly, it acts early to prevent widespread infestations, avoiding the need for reactive treatment. Lastly, it's safe for daily use, free from harmful chemicals, making it ideal for the whole family. Protect yourself and your loved ones with Vamousse Lice Defense Shampoo.

What We Like
Effective lice removal
Pleasant scent
Non-greasy formula
Prevention for lice outbreaks
Safe for daily use
What We Don't Like
May not kill all nits
Needs additional comb/treatment
#TOP 7

SoCozy Boo! Lice Scaring Shampoo

581A
WHITE
SoCozy Boo! Lice Scaring Shampoo Cover
SoCozy Boo! Lice Scaring Shampoo For Kids Hair, Effective Lice Treatment (10.5 Fl Oz) Scare Away Lice with Tea Tree, Rosemary and Peppermint Oils, No Parabens, Sulfates, Synthetic Colors or Dyes

SoCozy Lice Scaring Shampoo is a gentle and effective lice treatment for kids. Infused with essential oils like Tea Tree, Rosemary, and Peppermint, it not only scares away lice but also conditions the hair. The formula provides nourishing care, prevents lice infestation, and protects the hair, leaving it soft, shiny, and healthy-looking. Specifically designed for children's hair, this lice shampoo is free from harsh ingredients like Parabens and Sulfates, making it safe for your child's sensitive skin.

What We Like
Effective lice prevention
Pleasant peppermint scent
No greasy residue
Easy daily use
Natural essential oils
What We Don't Like
Strong scent for some
Spray top feels flimsy
#TOP 8

MAYDAY Daily Lice Routine Bundle Shampoo & Conditioner

MAYDAY
MDY006006
MAYDAY Daily Lice Routine Bundle Shampoo & Conditioner Cover
MAYDAY Daily Lice Routine Bundle – 12oz Shampoo & 12oz Conditioner | Non-Toxic, Pesticide-Free, Scientifically Proven Lice Defense for All Hair Types | Sandalwood & Mint Formula

The MAYDAY Lice Defense Bundle offers a complete daily routine with both shampoo and conditioner designed to keep lice away effectively. This bundle uses natural ingredients like sandalwood and mint, making it safe and chemical-free for you and your family. Its scientifically backed formula not only helps remove lice but also prevents them from coming back, giving you peace of mind. Plus, the shampoo cleans your hair thoroughly, while the conditioner detangles and hydrates, leaving your hair soft and smooth. This makes it a convenient and gentle choice for daily use on all hair types.

What We Like
Pleasant scent
Soothes scalp
Lice prevention support
Non-toxic formula
Leaves hair soft
What We Don't Like
Not a standalone lice treatment
Effectiveness for severe infestations limited
#TOP 9

Herklin Maximum Strength Lice Shampoo

Clear
2 Piece Set
Herklin Maximum Strength Lice Shampoo Cover
Herklin Lice Treatment Shampoo, Maximum Strength, Easy to Apply, 2 Fl Oz, Bottle

Herklin Lice Treatment Shampoo offers an effective solution for your family’s lice problems. This maximum strength formula works quickly, allowing you to eliminate lice in just three simple steps. You’ll appreciate the included nit comb, which makes it easier to remove nits and lice, ensuring a thorough treatment. In just ten minutes, you can see significant results, helping you and your loved ones return to your daily routine without the stress of lice. With its gentle formula, it’s suitable for everyone in the family, making it a convenient choice for lice treatment.

What We Like
Effective lice removal
Quick visible results
Easy to rinse out
Clear usage instructions
Strong but gentle formula
What We Don't Like
Slightly oily texture
Unpleasant scent for some
#TOP 10

Lice Shield Shampoo & Conditioner: Repels Lice and Super Lice

U-HC-9527
Lice Shield Shampoo & Conditioner: Repels Lice and Super Lice Cover
Lice Shield Shampoo & Conditioner in 1, Repels Lice and Super Lice, 10 fl oz

Lice Shield Shampoo & Conditioner is a 2in1 shampoo that is proven to repel head lice and persistent super lice with its exclusive blend of 5 natural essential oils. It gently cleanses and conditions hair, safe for all-family use, and provides peace of mind as a deterrent. However, it does not kill lice or eggs or treat an infestation.

What We Like
pleasant fragrance
effective lice prevention
softens hair
safe for children
annual family use
What We Don't Like
less effective than Vamousse
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Does Dawn dishwashing liquid kill head lice?

There is no scientific evidence or studies that support using Dawn dishwashing liquid as an effective treatment for lice. While it may make the hair cleaner, it is not a recommended method for getting rid of lice.

2. Does apple cider vinegar get rid of lice?

There is no scientific or clinical evidence to support the claim that apple cider vinegar effectively kills lice or stops lice infestation. While there are anecdotal reports suggesting it as a remedy, its effectiveness is not proven.

3. Do you have to remove nits after using Nix?

Most nits (lice eggs) are killed after the first treatment with Nix. However, it is not essential or urgent to remove the dead nits. Removing them can prevent others from thinking your child still has untreated lice.

4. Can lice live after Nix treatment?

Nix Creme Rinse® kills lice but not the nits. It is effective in killing newly hatched lice for a few days after treatment. However, a second treatment on day 9 is necessary to kill any newly hatched lice.

Editor's Notes

During our lice shampoos & rinse research, we found 24 lice shampoos & rinse products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 119,022 customer reviews through our big data system to write the lice shampoos & rinses list. We found that most customers choose lice shampoos & rinses with an average price of $17.98.

The lice shampoos & rinses are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of lice shampoos & rinses, including RID, Lice Clinics of America, Nix, Fairy Tales, Vamousse. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Bonnie Salem Avatar

Bonnie Salem is a stay-at-home mother with two-year-old twins and has spent almost half of her life surrounded by baby products. As a mother and a professional copywriter, she has an insightful and unique eye for researching products suitable for infants. Bonnie Salem is an expert in health and nutrition who lives with her family in New Jersey. She has over 15 years of working experience in an institute of medicine after graduating from the University of Toronto. She is highly interested in personal health and wellness.

Lice Shampoos & Rinses Comparison Table

#TOP1
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#TOP6
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#TOP8
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#TOP10
Brand RID Lice Clinics of America RID Nix Fairy Tales Vamousse SO COZY MAYDAY HERKLIN Lice Shield
Product Benefits Lice Control Lice Treatment kills and remove lice Treatment Hydrating, Moisturizing, Soothing - - Lice Prevention, Hydrating, Detangle, Nourishing Cleansing -
Item Weight 4 Ounces 10.55 ounces 13.12 Ounces 10.56 ounces - - - - 2 Ounces -
Specific Uses For Product Lice Lice Lice Lice - - - - Arthritis -
Item Form - - - - Liquid Shampoo Liquid Liquid - Liquid
Hair Type - - - - General All All All - Normal
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 9.0
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