How can vinegar be used to treat the head for lice and nits? - briefly
Apply undiluted white vinegar to the scalp and hair, let it sit for 5–10 minutes, then run a fine‑toothed nit comb through the strands to dissolve the glue and remove lice and eggs. The acidic solution loosens the nits, making them easier to extract.
How can vinegar be used to treat the head for lice and nits? - in detail
Vinegar, typically white or apple‑cider, can serve as an adjunct in eliminating head‑lice infestations and loosening attached eggs. Its acidic pH (≈2.5–3.0) dissolves the glue that nits use to adhere to hair shafts, making them easier to comb out.
Preparation
- Dilute vinegar with equal parts water to reduce scalp irritation.
- Warm the solution to body temperature (≈37 °C) for comfort.
Application
- Saturate the hair and scalp with the diluted mixture, ensuring thorough coverage from roots to tips.
- Allow the liquid to remain for 5–10 minutes; the acid penetrates the cement that secures the eggs.
- Rinse with lukewarm water, avoiding hot water that may close the cuticle and trap residues.
Mechanical removal
- While hair is still damp, use a fine‑toothed nit comb (spacing ≤0.2 mm).
- Start at the scalp, pulling the comb through a small section of hair (≈2 cm) in a single, steady motion.
- After each pass, wipe the comb on a paper towel or rinse it in a bowl of vinegar solution to prevent re‑depositing eggs.
- Repeat the combing process for the entire head, then again after 24 hours to capture any newly hatched lice.
Repeated treatment
- Perform the soak and comb routine daily for 7–10 days. The life cycle of head‑lice (egg → nymph → adult) is approximately 7 days; consistent removal prevents re‑infestation.
Safety considerations
- Test a small skin area before full application to rule out allergic reactions.
- Do not use undiluted vinegar on broken skin or open sores.
- Children under 6 months should not receive this treatment; consult a pediatrician.
- Avoid contact with eyes; if irritation occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
Adjunct measures
- Wash bedding, hats, and hair accessories in hot water (≥60 °C) or seal them in plastic bags for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture to eliminate fallen insects.
When applied correctly and combined with meticulous combing, vinegar weakens the attachment of lice eggs, facilitating their removal and reducing the need for chemical pediculicides.