How long should tar soap be used for lice? - briefly
«Tar soap» treatment typically lasts 10–15 minutes per application, after which the product is rinsed off. A second application is recommended 7–10 days later to ensure any newly hatched lice are eliminated.
How long should tar soap be used for lice? - in detail
Tar soap is applied to the scalp for a limited period to eradicate head‑lice infestations. Clinical guidelines advise a single 30‑minute exposure, followed by thorough rinsing. If live lice remain after the first session, a repeat application after seven days is recommended, because newly hatched nymphs may have emerged from surviving eggs.
Typical protocol:
- Apply the soap to dry hair, ensuring coverage of the entire scalp and hair shafts.
- Leave the product in place for 30 minutes; do not exceed this time to reduce the risk of skin irritation.
- Rinse hair with lukewarm water, removing all residues.
- Comb the hair with a fine‑toothed lice comb to extract dead insects and nits.
- Wait seven days, then repeat the treatment if any live lice are observed.
Safety considerations:
- Conduct a patch test on a small skin area 24 hours before the first use.
- Avoid use on children younger than six months, on broken skin, or on individuals with known sensitivity to coal‑tar products.
- Do not combine tar soap with other chemical lice treatments, as additive toxicity may occur.
Follow‑up:
- Inspect the scalp daily for the first three days after treatment.
- Continue weekly inspections for at least four weeks to confirm complete eradication.
- Maintain hygiene measures—regular laundering of bedding and personal items—to prevent reinfestation.
The overall recommended duration of tar‑soap therapy therefore consists of a 30‑minute initial application, with a possible second 30‑minute session after a seven‑day interval if necessary. This regimen balances efficacy against head‑lice with minimal adverse effects.