How can I remove lice and nits from long hair using kerosene at home? - briefly
Apply kerosene sparingly to the scalp, massage gently, then cover hair with a plastic cap for 15‑20 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with warm water and a mild shampoo; repeat the process after 7 days to eliminate any newly hatched lice. Use a fine-tooth comb to remove remaining nits after each treatment.
How can I remove lice and nits from long hair using kerosene at home? - in detail
Kerosene can dissolve the protective coating of lice and nits, allowing them to be washed away from lengthy hair. The method requires strict safety precautions because kerosene is flammable and toxic if inhaled or absorbed through the skin.
Materials
- 100 ml of clear, low‑sulphur kerosene (food‑grade if possible)
- A wide‑tooth comb designed for lice removal
- Two clean towels or disposable protective sheets
- A bowl large enough to hold the hair in a saturated state
- Mild shampoo, conditioner, and warm water for rinsing
- Disposable gloves, goggles, and a mask (N95 or higher)
- A well‑ventilated area, preferably outdoors or under a fan
Preparation
- Dress in gloves, goggles, and a mask to prevent skin contact and inhalation.
- Lay towels on the floor to catch drips; keep a fire‑extinguishing source nearby.
- Separate the hair into manageable sections with rubber bands, avoiding tangles.
Application
- Pour a small amount of kerosene onto a section of hair, saturating it but not soaking the scalp.
- Massage gently for 5–7 minutes; the liquid penetrates the egg shell and kills the embryo.
- After the massage, use the lice comb to pull out dead insects and empty shells, moving from the scalp outward.
Rinsing
- Transfer the treated hair into the bowl of warm water, add a generous amount of shampoo, and lather thoroughly.
- Rinse repeatedly until the water runs clear and no oily residue remains.
- Apply conditioner to restore moisture, then rinse again.
Post‑treatment steps
- Wash all towels, gloves, and combs with hot, soapy water; discard any disposable items.
- Vacuum the floor and any surfaces where drips occurred.
- Repeat the process after 7–10 days to eliminate any newly hatched nits.
Risks and contraindications
- Flammability: keep all ignition sources away; do not use near open flames.
- Skin irritation: kerosene can cause dermatitis; discontinue if redness or itching appears.
- Respiratory exposure: inhalation may cause cough or dizziness; ensure adequate ventilation.
- Not suitable for children under 2 years, pregnant women, or individuals with known chemical sensitivities.
Alternative methods
If safety concerns outweigh the benefits, consider approved over‑the‑counter lice treatments, steam washing, or a manual combing regimen with a fine‑tooth nit comb. These options eliminate the hazards associated with petroleum products while achieving comparable eradication rates.