How do you use kerosene for lice? - briefly
Apply a few drops of kerosene to the hair and scalp, massage gently, let it sit for 5–10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with soap and water. Avoid contact with eyes and monitor for any irritation.
How do you use kerosene for lice? - in detail
Kerosene, a petroleum distillate, has historically been applied as a lice‑killing agent, but its use demands strict adherence to safety protocols. The procedure consists of several stages: preparation, application, exposure, removal, and post‑treatment care.
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Preparation
• Obtain pure, uncolored kerosine with a flash point above 100 °C.
• Dilute the liquid with an equal volume of a mild carrier such as mineral oil or baby oil to reduce flammability and skin irritation.
• Test a small skin area on the forearm for a 15‑minute period; discontinue if redness, itching, or burning occurs. -
Application
• Separate the hair into manageable sections using a fine‑tooth comb.
• Using a clean dropper or spray bottle, saturate each section, ensuring the mixture reaches the scalp and covers the entire shaft.
• Avoid excess pooling; the liquid should be moist but not dripping. -
Exposure
• Cover the treated hair with a plastic cap or cling film to prevent evaporation and maintain contact.
• Leave the cap on for 30–45 minutes; this duration allows the solvent to penetrate the insect exoskeleton and disrupt respiration. -
Removal
• After the exposure period, remove the cap and wash the hair thoroughly with warm water and a mild detergent.
• Comb through the hair with a fine‑tooth nit comb, removing dead lice and nits.
• Rinse repeatedly until the water runs clear; any residual kerosine poses a fire hazard. -
Post‑treatment care
• Dry the hair with a clean towel; avoid using heat styling devices for at least 24 hours.
• Inspect the scalp daily for a week; repeat the process if live lice are observed, but limit repetitions to two cycles to minimize skin irritation.
• Store kerosine in a locked, fire‑proof container away from children and pets.
Precautions
- Do not apply to broken skin, open wounds, or irritated scalp.
- Keep the substance away from open flames, sparks, or hot surfaces.
- Use disposable gloves and protective eyewear during handling.
- In case of accidental ingestion or severe skin reaction, seek medical assistance immediately.
Alternative methods
Modern treatments include permethrin lotions, dimethicone sprays, and mechanical removal with nit combs. These options generally present lower toxicity and are recommended for routine infestations.
When executed with the outlined safeguards, kerosine can eliminate head‑lice infestations, but its risks outweigh benefits for most users; professional medical advice should be considered before implementation.