How should I use chlorine water for lice treatment on children? - briefly
Apply a diluted chlorine solution (approximately 0.5% sodium hypochlorite) to the child's scalp and hair, let it sit for 5–10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly; repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate any newly hatched lice.
How should I use chlorine water for lice treatment on children? - in detail
Chlorine solution can be employed as a chemical agent against head‑lice infestations in children when other treatments are unavailable or ineffective. The preparation must be diluted to a safe concentration, applied correctly, and monitored for adverse reactions.
- Use a household bleach that contains 5–6 % sodium hypochlorite.
- Dilute 1 mL of bleach with 99 mL of clean water to achieve a 0.05 % solution (approximately 500 ppm free chlorine).
- Mix the solution thoroughly; the final liquid should be clear and without odor remnants.
Application procedure:
- Perform a patch test on a small area of the child’s scalp; wait 5 minutes for any redness, burning, or irritation. Discontinue use if a reaction occurs.
- Apply the diluted solution evenly over the entire scalp and hair, ensuring coverage of the roots and behind the ears. Use a clean spray bottle or a damp washcloth.
- Leave the solution on the scalp for 5–10 minutes. Do not exceed this time frame, as prolonged exposure increases the risk of skin irritation.
- Rinse the hair thoroughly with lukewarm water. Follow with a mild, fragrance‑free shampoo if desired.
- Comb the hair with a fine‑toothed lice comb while wet to remove dead insects and nits. Repeat the combing process for at least 30 minutes, covering all sections.
Safety considerations:
- Do not use undiluted bleach; it can cause chemical burns.
- Keep the solution away from eyes, mouth, and open wounds.
- Supervise the child throughout the treatment; do not allow the child to play with the liquid.
- Store the diluted mixture in a clearly labeled container, out of reach of children, and discard any unused portion after 24 hours.
Post‑treatment actions:
- Re‑examine the scalp after 7 days; a second application may be required if live lice are still present.
- Wash all bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water (≥ 60 °C) or place them in a sealed bag for two weeks to prevent reinfestation.
- Avoid sharing combs, hats, or hair accessories until the infestation is cleared.
Contraindications:
- Children with known hypersensitivity to chlorine compounds.
- Infants younger than 6 months; alternative treatments should be sought.
- Open scalp lesions, eczema, or dermatitis; the solution may exacerbate these conditions.
When used according to the described dilution and protocol, chlorine water provides an effective, low‑cost option for eliminating head lice while minimizing the risk of chemical injury.