How can lice be removed with home remedies? - briefly
Applying a fine‑toothed nit comb after treating the scalp with a vinegar or olive‑oil solution dislodges lice and nits. Repeat the combing and washing process after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched insects.
How can lice be removed with home remedies? - in detail
Lice infestations can be addressed with several household approaches that target the insects and their eggs without professional chemicals.
Applying a high‑temperature treatment to the hair is effective. Saturate the scalp and strands with hot water (approximately 45 °C), then cover with a plastic cap for 10 minutes. The heat penetrates the nits, causing them to detach.
A petroleum‑based product, such as mineral oil or baby oil, suffocates lice. Apply a generous layer to dry hair, massage for several minutes, and leave in place for at least one hour. Afterward, comb the hair with a fine‑toothed lice comb, removing dead insects and loosened nits.
Vinegar, preferably white or apple‑cider, loosens the glue that holds nits to hair shafts. Dilute vinegar with equal parts water, pour over the hair, and let stand for 15 minutes. Follow with thorough combing using a lice comb to slide the nits off.
A mixture of baking soda and water creates a desiccating paste. Combine one tablespoon of baking soda with enough water to form a thick paste, apply to the scalp, allow to dry, then brush out the crusted material. This method dehydrates lice and makes them easier to remove.
Saline solution (salt water) can also be used. Dissolve two teaspoons of table salt in one cup of warm water, spray onto the hair, and let dry. The salt draws moisture from the insects, leading to their demise.
Key steps common to all methods:
- Wash hair with regular shampoo before treatment to remove excess debris.
- Use a fine‑toothed lice comb after each application; comb from scalp to tip in small sections, cleaning the comb frequently.
- Repeat the chosen procedure every 3–4 days for at least two weeks to ensure any newly hatched lice are eliminated.
- Launder bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water (≥60 °C) and dry on high heat to prevent re‑infestation.
Combining heat, suffocation, and adhesive disruption yields the highest success rate when relying solely on home‑based remedies.