How can you use vinegar to eliminate lice and nits? - briefly
Apply a warm 5‑10% white vinegar rinse to wet hair, let it sit for 10‑15 minutes to dissolve the adhesive that secures eggs to the shaft, then remove the loosened nits with a fine‑toothed lice comb. Follow with a regular shampoo to clear remaining lice and repeat the process after seven days to eliminate any newly hatched insects.
How can you use vinegar to eliminate lice and nits? - in detail
Vinegar’s acidity helps dissolve the glue that holds lice eggs to hair shafts, making it easier to remove both insects and their nits. The liquid also creates an environment that is uncomfortable for adult lice, encouraging them to leave the host.
Preparation
- Choose a clear, white distilled or apple cider vinegar with at least 5 % acetic acid.
- Dilute with an equal part of warm water to reduce irritation while preserving effectiveness.
- Test a small skin area for sensitivity before full application.
Application procedure
- Saturate the scalp and hair with the diluted solution, ensuring complete coverage from roots to tips.
- Cover the hair with a plastic shower cap or cling film to prevent evaporation; leave in place for 30–45 minutes.
- After the waiting period, rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
- Comb the wet hair with a fine-toothed nit comb, starting at the scalp and moving outward. Wipe the comb on a white towel after each pass to monitor removed material.
- Repeat the combing process every 2–3 days for two weeks, as any surviving eggs will hatch within this window.
Additional measures
- Wash all bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water (≥ 130 °F) or place them in a sealed bag for two weeks to eliminate surviving lice.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats to remove stray insects.
- Avoid using hair conditioners or oils before treatment, as they can impede vinegar’s contact with the glue.
Safety considerations
- Do not apply undiluted vinegar directly to the scalp of children under two years old.
- Discontinue use if redness, burning, or allergic reaction occurs; seek medical advice if symptoms persist.
- Combine vinegar treatment with a prescription pediculicide only under professional guidance to avoid adverse interactions.
Following this regimen maximizes the likelihood of eradicating an infestation without resorting to harsh chemicals. Regular inspection after treatment confirms success and prevents re‑infestation.