Are lice repelled by testosterone?

There is no scientific evidence that testosterone directly repels lice. Lice are attracted to factors such as warmth, odor, and proximity to a blood source (human scalp), but there is no clear link between testosterone and their aversion or attraction.

Most studies of lice focus on hygiene, hair texture, and social factors that influence the spread of lice, such as close contact, especially among children in schools.

There is no evidence that hormonal levels, such as high or low testosterone levels, play any role in repelling or attracting lice.

Lice control is usually achieved with special shampoos, lotions, and other treatments that contain insecticides, and not by hormonal manipulation or changes in testosterone levels.

Source: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/article-abstract/2823413

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2024-09-25 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2025