How can lice be killed with vinegar? - briefly
Vinegar’s acidity loosens the glue that holds nits to hair shafts, allowing them to be removed with a fine-toothed comb after a thorough rinse. It does not kill adult lice directly, so a follow‑up treatment is required to eradicate the infestation.
How can lice be killed with vinegar? - in detail
Vinegar, particularly white distilled or apple‑cider varieties, can be employed as a component of a lice‑control regimen because its acidity disrupts the protective coating of the insect’s exoskeleton and loosens the glue that attaches nits to hair shafts. The acetic acid in the solution lowers the pH on the scalp, creating an environment that impairs the respiratory system of the parasite and may cause mortality within a few hours.
To implement the method, follow these steps:
- Mix equal parts of 5 % household vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle.
- Saturate the hair, ensuring the solution reaches the scalp and coats each strand from root to tip.
- Cover the treated area with a plastic cap or shower cap for 15–30 minutes to maintain contact.
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and a mild shampoo to remove residual acidity.
- Comb the hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb while still damp, separating and extracting any loosened nits.
- Repeat the application every 24 hours for three consecutive days, as newly hatched lice may emerge after the initial treatment.
Safety considerations include testing a small skin area for irritation before full application, avoiding use on broken or inflamed scalp, and keeping the solution away from eyes. Vinegar does not possess insecticidal properties comparable to prescription pediculicides; its efficacy relies on mechanical removal of nits and the temporary hostile environment it creates. Consequently, it should be regarded as an adjunct to thorough combing rather than a standalone cure, especially in heavy infestations where medically approved treatments may be required.