How is kerosene used as a lice remedy? - briefly
A few milliliters of kerosene are spread over the scalp and hair, left for 5–10 minutes to immobilize the lice, then the hair is combed with a fine-tooth lice comb and washed thoroughly with soap and water. The method is discouraged because kerosene is flammable and can irritate skin, so medical alternatives are preferred.
How is kerosene used as a lice remedy? - in detail
Kerosene has been employed in some traditional practices to eliminate head‑lice infestations. The procedure involves mixing a small quantity of the liquid fuel with a carrier oil—often mineral oil or petroleum jelly—to reduce flammability and skin irritation. The resulting emulsion is applied to the scalp, saturating the hair shafts and covering the entire affected area. After a waiting period of 15–30 minutes, the mixture is thoroughly rinsed with warm water and a mild shampoo to remove residual oil and dead insects.
Key steps in the process:
- Measure 1–2 mL of kerosene and combine it with 10–15 mL of a neutral oil.
- Stir until a uniform blend forms; avoid vigorous shaking that can create bubbles.
- Part hair into sections, apply the blend with a cotton ball or applicator brush, ensuring contact with the scalp and each strand.
- Cover the head with a plastic cap or towel to maintain moisture and prevent evaporation.
- After the prescribed exposure time, wash hair repeatedly until the oil is completely removed; a second shampooing cycle is advisable.
The therapeutic effect relies on kerosene’s solvent properties, which dissolve the protective waxy coating of lice and nits, leading to dehydration and death. Additionally, the oily medium suffocates the insects by blocking their respiratory openings.
Safety considerations are critical:
- Do not use on broken skin, open wounds, or irritated scalp; kerosene can cause dermatitis.
- Keep the mixture away from open flames, sparks, or hot surfaces, as it remains flammable even when diluted.
- Perform a patch test on a small skin area 24 hours before full application to detect possible allergic reactions.
- Children under two years of age should not be treated with this method due to heightened sensitivity.
Medical authorities generally advise against kerosene for lice control because of the risk of chemical burns, systemic toxicity, and accidental ingestion. Modern alternatives—such as permethrin‑based shampoos, dimethicone lotions, or oral ivermectin—offer proven efficacy with lower adverse‑event profiles. If kerosene is chosen despite these warnings, the procedure must be supervised by a qualified health professional, and emergency measures (e.g., immediate washing with soap and water) should be ready in case of adverse reactions.