How much kerosene is needed for lice? - briefly
«Kerosene» is not a recommended pediculicide; no safe quantity exists for treating lice. Approved insecticide shampoos or topical treatments provide proven efficacy.
How much kerosene is needed for lice? - in detail
Kerosene is occasionally mentioned in folk remedies for head‑lice eradication, but scientific guidance emphasizes precise dilution and limited exposure to avoid skin irritation and toxicity.
A typical preparation involves mixing kerosene with a carrier oil or water to achieve a concentration that can immobilize insects without causing severe dermal damage. Recommended ratios range from 1 % to 5 % kerosene by volume, measured with a calibrated syringe or graduated cylinder. For a standard adult scalp, 10 ml of a 2 % solution (0.2 ml kerosene mixed with 9.8 ml carrier) is sufficient to treat the entire region.
Key parameters for safe application:
- Concentration: 1 %–5 % (higher concentrations increase risk of burns).
- Volume: 5 ml–15 ml per treatment, depending on hair length and density.
- Contact time: 5 minutes maximum; longer exposure raises toxicity.
- Frequency: Single application; repeat after 7 days only if live lice are observed.
Safety precautions:
- Apply to dry hair; avoid contact with eyes, mucous membranes, and broken skin.
- Perform a patch test on a small scalp area 24 hours before full treatment; discontinue if redness or itching occurs.
- Rinse thoroughly with mild shampoo and warm water after the allotted contact time.
- Store kerosene away from children and pets; keep container tightly sealed.
Professional health agencies do not endorse kerosene for lice control due to the availability of proven pediculicides with lower risk profiles. When kerosene is considered, strict adherence to the dilution guidelines and exposure limits is essential to minimize adverse effects.
«Use of kerosene in lice management should be regarded as a last‑resort measure, reserved for situations where conventional treatments are unavailable or ineffective, and only under informed supervision.»