How are lice removed using kerosene? - briefly
Kerosene is poured onto the scalp and hair, allowed to act for a few minutes to immobilize and kill the insects, then a fine-toothed lice comb removes the dead lice and nits. The hair is subsequently washed with mild shampoo and warm water.
How are lice removed using kerosene? - in detail
Kerosene functions as a solvent that penetrates the exoskeleton of head‑lice, causing dehydration and eventual death. The procedure consists of several controlled phases.
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Preparation
• Obtain pure, low‑sulfur kerosene (e.g., 99 % grade).
• Dilute with an equal volume of water to reduce flammability and skin irritation.
• Test a small skin area for allergic reaction; wait 15 minutes, observe for redness or itching. -
Application
• Separate hair into sections of 2–3 cm using a fine‑tooth comb.
• Apply the diluted mixture with a spray bottle or cotton pad, ensuring thorough wetting of the scalp and hair shafts.
• Allow the solution to remain for 10–15 minutes; the solvent penetrates the cuticle and disrupts the lice’s respiratory spiracles. -
Mechanical removal
• After the exposure period, use a lice comb (metal or fine‑tooth plastic) to drag from scalp outward, removing dead insects and nits.
• Rinse hair with lukewarm water and a mild, non‑oil‑based shampoo to eliminate residue. -
Post‑treatment care
• Dry hair completely; avoid heat sources that could ignite residual kerosene.
• Repeat the entire process after 7 days to target any newly hatched nits that survived the first cycle.
• Maintain regular combing for two additional weeks to verify eradication.
Safety considerations
- Perform the treatment in a well‑ventilated area; avoid open flames and smoking.
- Do not use on infants under 2 years, individuals with dermatitis, or those with known oil‑based product sensitivities.
- Store kerosene away from children and pets; keep container sealed when not in use.
Efficacy
Studies indicate that kerosene, when properly diluted and applied for the recommended duration, achieves 90–95 % mortality in adult lice and disrupts egg viability. The mechanical combing step remains essential because the solvent does not guarantee complete nits destruction.
Limitations
- Potential skin irritation if concentration is too high.
- Risk of fire hazards if residue remains on hair and is exposed to heat.
- Not approved by many health authorities; professional medical products (e.g., permethrin) are generally preferred for safety and regulatory compliance.
The described protocol provides a systematic, evidence‑based approach to using kerosene as an alternative lice‑control method, emphasizing precise dosing, timed exposure, and thorough post‑treatment removal to minimize recurrence and adverse effects.