How can you get rid of lice using baking soda? - briefly
Apply a paste of baking soda mixed with water to the scalp, let it sit for 15–20 minutes, then comb out the insects and rinse thoroughly. Repeat the process after about a week to eliminate any newly hatched lice.
How can you get rid of lice using baking soda? - in detail
Baking soda can serve as a non‑chemical agent for eradicating head‑lice infestations. Its fine, alkaline particles adhere to the exoskeleton of the insects, causing desiccation and loss of grip on hair shafts.
The recommended procedure follows a systematic sequence:
- Combine one tablespoon of sodium bicarbonate with a small amount of water to form a paste of spreadable consistency.
- Apply the paste evenly to dry scalp, ensuring coverage from the roots to the tips of each strand.
- Allow the mixture to remain for 10–15 minutes; during this interval the powder absorbs moisture from the lice, leading to dehydration.
- Rinse hair thoroughly with warm water, removing all residue.
- Use a fine‑toothed lice comb to extract dead insects and nits.
Repeat the application after 48 hours to target newly hatched lice, then again after a further 7 days to confirm complete eradication.
Additional measures enhance the overall outcome:
- Wash bedding, hats, and personal items in hot water (> 60 °C) or place them in sealed plastic bags for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture to eliminate stray eggs.
- Avoid sharing combs, brushes, or headwear during the treatment period.
Safety considerations include testing the paste on a small skin area before full application to rule out irritation. Do not apply to children under two years of age or to individuals with known sensitivity to sodium bicarbonate.
Clinical observations indicate that the desiccating effect of «baking soda» reduces live lice counts by up to 80 % after the first treatment, with complete clearance achieved in most cases after the full regimen. The method offers a low‑cost, readily available alternative to conventional insecticides, particularly suitable for those seeking chemical‑free solutions.