How does kerosene kill lice? - briefly
Kerosene coats the insects, blocking their spiracles and causing rapid asphyxiation; its toxic hydrocarbons also interfere with neuronal signaling, leading to immediate paralysis and death. This dual action eradicates the infestation within minutes.
How does kerosene kill lice? - in detail
Kerosene eliminates head‑lice through a combination of physical and chemical actions. The liquid consists mainly of aliphatic hydrocarbons that are lipophilic and have low volatility. When applied to the scalp and hair, it creates a continuous film that interferes with the insect’s respiratory system and cuticular integrity.
Mechanisms of action
- Respiratory blockage – Lice breathe through spiracles located on the thorax. The oily coating seals these openings, preventing gas exchange and leading to asphyxiation.
- Cuticle dissolution – The hydrocarbon mixture penetrates the waxy layer of the exoskeleton, disrupting its waterproofing properties and causing desiccation.
- Nervous system impairment – Hydrocarbons act as solvents for the insect’s membrane lipids, altering ion channel function and resulting in paralysis.
- Nymph and egg detachment – The viscous film reduces adhesion of nymphs and loosens the cement that secures eggs to hair shafts, facilitating mechanical removal.
Application considerations
- Apply a thin layer of kerosene to dry hair, ensuring coverage of the scalp and all hair strands.
- Allow the product to remain for a defined period (typically 10–15 minutes) before washing thoroughly with a mild detergent to remove residual oil.
- Conduct a patch test on a small skin area to assess irritation risk; kerosene can cause dermatitis and should not be used on broken skin.
- Avoid inhalation of vapors and keep the treatment away from open flames due to flammability.
- Repeat treatment after 7–10 days to target any newly hatched lice that survived the initial exposure.
The combined suffocating, desiccating, and neurotoxic effects of kerosene provide a rapid reduction in lice populations when used according to safety guidelines.