Dealing with a bad case of head lice? One recommendation you’ll find over and over from experts is to do some combing. Combing can serve as both a confirmation of whether someone has head lice, as well as a way to treat an infestation by physically removing the bugs and nits. As a result today, we’ll be telling you everything you need to know about the best lice comb.
Many tools known as lice combs are available on the market today to aid in the combing process. Combs can be both the main treatment option or, more commonly, used alongside medication. If you’re worried about the idea of over-the-counter chemical treatments for head lice, this is a rightful concern. Lice combs are a simple, yet effective treatment, which doesn’t involve the use of nasty chemicals.
If your kid has brought home super lice, then your safest bet is to use a lice comb. This term is used to describe the new breed of treatment-resistant lice. Specifically, they remain unmoved by insecticide treatments.
As you can tell, metal lice comb, lice comb vacuum, or lice zap comb offers numerous benefits and are essential tools in the fight against this nasty pest. So if you are on the hunt for a lice comb we are here to help by showing you some of the best lice comb options available on the market now.
Lice Comb Reviewed In This Guide
Best Overall: Nit Free Terminator Lice Comb
⇣ Jump to ReviewBest On Amazon: Stainless Steel Professional Lice Comb
⇣ Jump to ReviewBest Affordable: OWNHEALER Lice Comb
⇣ Jump to ReviewBest Durable Material: LiceMeister Head Lice & Nit Removal Lice Comb
⇣ Jump to ReviewBest Anti-Slip Option: LiceLogic Eliminator Lice Comb
⇣ Jump to ReviewHow To Choose The Perfect Lice Comb For You?
A high-quality lice comb has long, fine, metal teeth that are very close together. Some experts say not to bother with plastic combs or the ones that come in the lice medicine packages.
All combs have a common design feature of small teeth with very little space between them. In general, the more fine-toothed the comb, the more effective it is. Combs with teeth closer to 0.09 inches are best for removing both adults and nits.
Physical removal of head lice through combing requires a high-quality lice comb. The space between the teeth should be no more than 0.3 mm. It is a cheap and effective, but time-consuming, method.
Combing has to be repeated twice a week for a total of 4 weeks to ensure that all nymphs having hatched in the meantime are eliminated. A randomized control study showed that wet combing (also called ‘bug busting’) has higher efficacy than topical treatment with 0.5% malathion or 1% permethrin. However, the quality of the comb is essential.
Electric, plastic, and metal head lice combs exist. Regardless of which type you choose, be prepared to use it to comb through all of your child’s hair for weeks in a row in order to remove as many of the pests as possible.
The best lice comb for all types of hair can provide optimum results irrespective of the hair type.
Types Of Lice Comb
Plastic Lice Comb
Most combs are made of plastic or metal. Plastic combs are weaker overall and typically only good for a couple of uses.
Metal Lice Comb
The regular, old-fashioned steel lice comb is simply a very fine-toothed comb that gets run through hair to capture the nits (lice eggs). Usually, this is after using shampoo or other treatment to kill the live lice.
Metal combs will be more expensive, but are sturdier and likely to last longer. If you would like a comb that lasts, metal combs are durable and can frequently be sterilized in boiling water or with a disinfectant. However, metal combs cost more.
- Metal Rectangular Teeth Lice Comb. Metal combs are further divided into those that are made from a flat sheet of metal and hence have rectangular teeth.
- Metal Cylindrical Teeth Lice Comb. There are also those that have cylindrical teeth embedded in a plastic base. Head lice combs with long rounded stainless steel teeth, positioned very close together, are the most effective.
Vacuum Lice Comb
Vacuum combs work exactly as the name implies, by sucking up the live lice and nasty nits. Usually, they have a collection chamber or bag in which the live catchment is captured. Yes, the lice are still alive, so if you’re squeamish, this may not be for you.
An advantage of vacuum combs is that the user doesn’t have to use shampoos first, as the device is applied directly to the hair. A disadvantage, however, is that the combs don’t kill the lice and they are reportedly difficult, or even painful, to use in very thick hair. They are noisy and may irritate children.
Electric lice combs
Electric lice combs are another chemical-free option. This option, however, stuns or kills the lice by using the comb. As the operator runs the comb through the hair, it removes the lice as well as the nits.
The operator and the infested person are protected from electric shock by rubber guards on the comb. The comb is suitable for use in all hair types, although those with thicker hair will need to be careful about sectioning it.
Best Lice Comb List
1. Nit Free Terminator Lice Comb
What We Like
- Professional
- Stainless Steel
- Louse and Nit Comb
- Head Lice Treatment
- Removes Nits
What We Don’t Like
- Not For Thick Hair
- No Grooves
Fight head lice at the source with the Nit-Free Terminator Lice Comb. Get underneath and remove even the tiniest lice eggs (nits) from hair with this comb’s spiral micro-grooved teeth.
Tightly grip the comb with the anti-slip bands on the handle and protect the scalp and hair thanks to microscopically-rounded tooth ends that prevent pricking, scratching, or pulling.
What Our Testers Say
Removes pretty much whatever is stuck in your hair, nits, small flakes, particles, lint, and every bit of unwanted little things that are not getting out by a wash or a comb.
A fellow passenger on a bus passed on a minor infestation to me and absolutely horrified, frantically searching for a solution, I came across this product.
I was doubtful but the reviews made me take a chance on what appeared too expensive. Fingers crossed, I tried it out, and voila! It worked!
Made from durable and corrosion-resistant stainless steel, this lice comb can be sterilized for clean use by the whole family day after day.
Nit Free lice-fighting formulas include products that help safely remove and prevent lice with lice combs, shampoos, conditioners, mousse, sprays, and more.
Tips
Comb small patches of hair until all Nit and Lice are Out.
2. Stainless Steel Professional Lice Comb
What We Like
- Stainless Steel
- Head Lice Treatment
- Kids & Adults
What We Don’t Like
- It Gets Rusty
Picture being able to have backup lice comb to effectively rid yourself of lice for good! Because this head lice comb comes in a pack of two, one red and one blue, you’ll be able to have spare lice comb.
This is great for you because now you’re prepared for if lice strike more than one member of your family, or if a re-infection occurs. Or you can have one at home, and one on the go in case of emergencies!
If you’ve been looking for a comb that will effectively remove lice and nits, then your search is over!
That’s because our professional head lice comb has the ability to grip the hair from root to tip to help ensure that even the smallest nits are removed, which means you can stop infections while preventing re-infections
The problem with other lice combs is their cheap construction which can make a time-sensitive issue like lice, that much more unbearable. This lice comb solves that problem!
What Our Testers Say
With two young daughters and me with long hair, every 2-3 years, from school or summer camp, we get lice. It’s a nightmare even under the best of circumstances.
These combs are the only things that work – the terrible combs you get with lice medicine/shampoo are awful.
These combs get the bugs and the nits with their gritty “teeth”. Gross but it works! This is what the pros use – highly recommended.
That’s because the head lice comb is made of high-quality materials and is durable enough for any hair type and any type of lice infestation, which means that you’ll be able to get rid of your lice in no time! Never suffer cheap, breaking combs ever again.
The head lice comb hair treatment has an ergonomically designed handle so you can have a firm grip and guaranteed handheld comfort. What that means to you is you’ll be able to use the lice comb thoroughly.
Tips
If you have very long hair, comb in sections using the comb at an angle on the scalp and all the way to the bottom of the hair.
3. OWNHEALER Lice Comb
What We Like
- Stainless Steel
- All Hair Types
- Sturdy
- Easy to use
What We Don’t Like
- Not Effective With Small Nits
The head lice comb is suitable for all hair types and hair lengths. Works with thin, thick hair. Can also be used for psoriasis comb, and metal dreadlock comb.
It is a highly effective kit for head lice detangler with a plastic disposable double-sided comb. Includes 2 expertly designed lice combs metal made from high-quality stainless steel and 1 plastic comb double-sided.
One comb is made of stainless steel with straight gaps between the teeth. The other one has a rounded top made of eco-plastic and offers a comfortable grip. The third one is a two-sided plastic comb that helps to detangle the hair. These combs can be boiled for 10 minutes for sterilization and reused.
Powerful lice treatment family-size solution for kids, women, men, girls, and boys, adults with curly hair. Great extra strength for Family in the comfort of your own home.
What Our Testers Say
This is the key right here to remove lice. It’s not about the shampoos or the chemicals you’re supposed to use, it’s all about using this comb frequently!!! I used it in my daughter’s (biracial) hair and this is what finally worked after doing everything else I had already done.
I looked the reviews up on this product and decided to give it a try and it ended up working the best.
I used it in the bathtub. I’d wash her body and hair like normal, then put conditioner in, then she let me comb it in layers with the blue and silver comb and it worked like magic!!!!
Tips
Use the comb to remove lice from the hair, working through the hair one small section at a time. Tea tree oil can also be applied directly to a fine-toothed comb and combed through dry hair with each brushing.
4. LiceMeister Head Lice & Nit Removal Lice Comb
What We Like
- School-Approved
- Stainless Steel
- Cleaning Tool Included
- No Shampoo/Pesticides Needed
- Durable
What We Don’t Like
- May Pull Hair
This lice comb provides a safe and effective non-chemical treatment alternative for “kids at risk” and others choosing to avoid pesticides.
This high-quality comb features a smooth handle design with no jagged edges or points to snag while combing dry, wet, or damp hair, with its permanently sealed handle.
What Our Testers Say
After reading a lot of reviews and struggling to eliminate my daughter’s head lice issues, I decided to pick up one of these. VERY different than the 3 drug store combs I tried. Instead of spending tons of time searching for and hand-pulling out the nits after getting just the live ones with the comb, this thing seriously gets them all!
I couldn’t see most of them until the comb pulled them out. I suggest holding it up against the light to see if you got anything – some of those nits are SO SMALL it’s the only way you can tell! I don’t see this thing bending or breaking anytime soon. With a kiddo in daycare, I’m really glad to have this in my arsenal now!!
Enables regular screening and early detection in addition to the thorough removal of lice and nits. Unlike other combs, the LiceMeister maintains 100% integrity after boiling.
This is a medically-approved lice removal comb. It has highly-polished, precisely-spaced stainless steel teeth with a sturdy and unbreakable handle. It glides smoothly on your scalp without snagging or pulling. It can be reused, and unlike other combs, this lice comb maintains its integrity even after boiling.
Tips
Use the comb on clean untangled hair. Comb through the entire head. If lice or nits are found, section off hair and comb each section from roots to ends. Use the cleaner tool to remove the lice/nits from the comb, or dip them into boiling water to clean them.
5. LiceLogic Eliminator Lice Comb
What We Like
- Professional Grade Stainless Steel
- No-Slip Grip Handle
- Durable
- Strong
- Reusable
What We Don’t Like
- Pulls Hair
This professional metal lice comb is the #1 rated head lice and nit comb by professionals and physicians to remove lice, eggs, nits, and super lice. Made with durable stainless steel micro-grooved metal teeth, and a plastic no-slip grip handle.
What Our Testers Say
BUY THIS ONE! The shampoo doesn’t work, at all. The various combs sold in stores don’t work, at all. Only this comb works.
The second time lice struck our kids we were prepared with this comb and had it under control in a few days’ time vs a month of lice and nits on and off first using the shampoo and store-bought combs. Comb wet hair daily with this and it will catch every tiny, sticky nit and lice.
The LiceLogic Eliminator Lice and Nit Free metal head lice comb is perfect for fine hair, thick hair, long hair, and short hair to remove even the smallest nits and baby lice too. The unique lice comb is reusable, will not rust, will last for years to come, and is perfect for the entire family.
Now you can be lice-free and nit free with the LiceLogic Eliminator Lice Comb. The stainless steel metal teeth grip the hair from root to tip to ensure safe, fast, and natural lice removal, and our grooved plastic handle have a superior no-slip grip. Should be sterilized after each use.
Tips
LiceLogic Eliminator Nit Comb is also perfect for head lice checks at home and at school and camp.
Lice Comb Buying Guide
What Is A Lice Comb?
A lice comb is a useful screening tool and can aid in finding live lice. Nits alone are not diagnostic of active infection, but if they are found within 1/4 inch from the scalp, an active infestation is more likely.
How Does A Lice Comb Work?
Lice combs have teeth that are precisely spaced so lice and eggs of all sizes are unable to pass through. Most lice combs have durable metal teeth that often have grooves specifically designed to help the comb “grip” and remove any lice and eggs that are found.
This is especially important in the removal of lice eggs, which are fixated so strongly to the hair shafts that the only way to remove them is by forcefully sliding them for the full length of the hair strand.
Without the features of a dedicated lice comb, a hair comb will have little to no effect on an infestation of lice. Removing lice with a lice comb is relatively straightforward.
First, wash the hair with normal shampoo and conditioner before detangling it with a regular comb. Then switch to the head lice comb. Start each stroke using the lice comb from the roots/scalp with the beveled edge lightly touching the scalp.
Draw the comb along with the entire hair to the end. Check the comb for lice after each stroke and remove them by rinsing or wiping the comb.
Features To Look For In A Lice Comb
Teeth
You’ll want to use a lice comb with teeth that are close together. As long as teeth are long, tightly packed, and riveted, the easier it will be to remove lice from the scalp.
The teeth should be just barely wider than the hair. Nits, which are lice eggs, are typically smaller and harder to capture, so this requires even smaller gaps in the teeth of the comb. Ultimately, for treatment, a nit comb with teeth spaced 0.09 to 0.19mm apart is thought to provide the needed traction for the removal of eggs and nits.
Grooves
Although they can be hard to see, some lice combs come with grooves designed to dislodge nits from the hair near the scalp.
These grooves are beneficial because they can help loosen the eggs, which are trapped near the roots of the hair and require the warmth of the scalp to survive. Combs without grooves tend to be cheaper, but might not be as useful.
Grip
Having to constantly readjust your hands while combing through the scalp is not only annoying but also ineffective. To avoid losing your grip, buy a comb with a handle that is thick and padded enough to provide extra support. Also, sometimes it is easier to manage lice removal if you have someone else combing through your head instead of trying to do it yourself.
Durability
One key characteristic to look for when purchasing a comb is that it will be able to withstand multiple washes in between uses. This is because these combs need to be cleaned after every removal session to ensure no live lice or nits are lingering on the surface.
Material
The electronic lice comb made of plastic is cheaper but weak and last only for a couple of uses. If you want a long-lasting product, buy a metal comb. Metal combs, especially steel combs, can be boiled or sanitized and reused.
Stainless steel comb teeth are the best option, for a number of reasons. Stainless steel is more durable, easy to clean, and of higher quality.
The bristles need to be strong to withstand the pressure while removing lice. You do not want them breaking midway. If you have thick or coarse hair, use a steel-toothed lice comb that will make your job easy.
Common Questions About The Lice Comb
Do the lice comb work?
A nit comb is a fine-toothed comb that helps to pull out both head lice and their eggs. It’s a good product for head lice removal, but even better if you know how to use it most effectively. A metal comb can be more effective, but a plastic comb works well too.
Are lice combs necessary?
Without the features of a dedicated lice comb, a hair comb will have little to no effect on an infestation of lice. Even with a dedicated lice comb, effectively removing all lice and nits can be a challenge for someone who has never done it before.
Can the lice comb damage hair?
Combs with plastic teeth are gentle on the scalp and hair, and when used with conditioner they remove most lice and some eggs. Combs with flat metal teeth can damage the hair shaft, and when used with conditioner they remove some lice and a few eggs.
Is it better to comb lice out of wet or dry hair?
You cannot get rid of lice with a hairbrush or with a hair dryer. The best way to find head lice is by using fine-toothed lice comb on hair that is dry, wet, or wet with conditioner.
Can a hair comb be sued to remove lice?
Because the size of head lice and their eggs is so small, the gaps between an average hair comb’s teeth are just too big to effectively catch them. The plastic material that most hair combs are made of is also too smooth to “grip” any nits and bugs enough to remove them from the hair.
How do I clean my lice comb?
After you are done using the comb, clean it with soap and hot water. Rinse in hot water for 10 to 30 minutes then dry and wipe with alcohol. This process will ensure every lice and nit is removed from the comb prior to putting it away.
How to use a lice comb?
- First, wet all of your child’s hair and comb conditioner through it with a regular brush. The water slows down the lice and the conditioner makes the hair easier to comb.
- Then sit your child down where you can easily see and reach their head. Combing underneath a bright light is best.
- Separate their hair into a number of small sections.
- Begin combing through these sections one at a time.
- Clean the comb out with a tissue or toilet paper after every few brushes so you can inspect it for live lice and nits.
- Pay special attention to areas close to the scalp, behind their ears, and near the nape of their neck. The bugs tend to gather in these regions.
Enjoy Your New Lice Comb
There you have it, the best lice comb options around, keep in mind using head lice comb to remove lice and nits can be a long process that requires a lot of patience, but it is one of the most effective methods to remove these bugs.
We hope you have found this guide useful, and like always wish you the best of luck in your head lice comb search so you can put an end to that annoying lice infestation.
If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to shoot a message back to us. We are always happy to hear your feedback.
Disclosure: The Hair Products recommended in this article are our top favorites because they have a great combination of quality, features, and affordability. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases made through the links as a way to support this site. If you buy a qualifying product, you’re not charged anything extra, but I’ll get a small commission to help pay for my expenses. I hope you find our advice helpful and discover the Best Hair Products for your needs on this list.
