How should kerosene be properly diluted to kill lice? - briefly
Dilute kerosene with water at a ratio of roughly 1 part kerosene to 4 parts water, stirring thoroughly before application. Apply the mixture to the scalp using a spray bottle, leave for a few minutes, then rinse immediately and wash hair with a mild shampoo.
How should kerosene be properly diluted to kill lice? - in detail
Kerosene must be mixed with a non‑flammable carrier to reduce toxicity and improve spreadability. Use a 1 % solution: combine 1 mL of clear, low‑sulfur kerosene with 99 mL of distilled water emulsified by a mild surfactant such as liquid soap (0.5 % of the total volume). The surfactant stabilizes the mixture, preventing separation.
Before application, test the solution on a small skin area for 15 minutes. If no irritation occurs, proceed. Apply the diluted mixture to the scalp using a fine‑toothed comb saturated with the solution. Work from the crown to the nape, ensuring each strand is coated. Allow the liquid to remain for 10 minutes; the kerosene component penetrates the exoskeleton, disrupting respiratory function of the parasites.
After the exposure period, rinse the hair thoroughly with lukewarm water and a mild shampoo to remove residual oil. Dry the scalp completely before using any hair products. Dispose of the remaining solution in a sealed container, then place it in a hazardous‑waste collection bin.
Safety precautions:
- Perform the treatment in a well‑ventilated area.
- Wear disposable gloves and protective eyewear.
- Keep the mixture away from open flames and heat sources.
- Store kerosene separately from household chemicals.
Repeated treatment after seven days may be required to target newly hatched nymphs. Monitoring for live insects for three weeks confirms efficacy. If adverse skin reactions develop, discontinue use immediately and seek medical advice. Alternative pediculicides with established safety profiles are recommended for most users.