How should chlorine water be properly used to eliminate lice? - briefly
Prepare a 0.5 % sodium hypochlorite solution (approximately one part household bleach to nine parts water), fully soak the affected hair, let it act for 5–10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly; repeat the treatment after 48 hours to target any newly hatched nits. Use protective gloves, avoid eye contact, and do not exceed the recommended concentration to prevent scalp irritation.
How should chlorine water be properly used to eliminate lice? - in detail
Chlorine solution can be an effective agent for eradicating lice when applied correctly. Use a diluted mixture of household bleach (5‑6 % sodium hypochlorite) at a concentration of 0.5 % active chlorine. Prepare the solution by adding 1 part bleach to 10 parts water, mixing thoroughly, and allowing it to reach room temperature.
Before treatment, wash hair with a regular shampoo to remove excess oil and debris. Apply the diluted chlorine liquid to fully saturated hair, ensuring contact with the scalp and all strands. Use a fine-tooth comb to distribute the solution evenly and to detach nits.
Leave the solution on the hair for 10 minutes. Do not exceed this period, as prolonged exposure increases the risk of scalp irritation and hair damage. After the exposure time, rinse the hair thoroughly with lukewarm water until no residue remains. Follow with a mild conditioner to restore moisture.
Key safety measures:
- Perform a patch test on a small skin area 24 hours before full application to detect allergic reactions.
- Wear protective gloves during preparation and application to avoid skin contact.
- Keep the solution away from eyes, mucous membranes, and broken skin.
- Do not use on children under two years of age or on individuals with known hypersensitivity to chlorine.
- Store any remaining mixture in a clearly labeled, sealed container out of reach of children.
After treatment, repeat the process after seven days to address any newly hatched lice. Maintain regular combing with a lice‑removal comb for at least two weeks to ensure complete eradication.