How should vinegar be diluted for hair against lice? - briefly
Combine one part apple cider vinegar with three parts water (for example, ¼ cup vinegar to ¾ cup water) and apply to the scalp, leaving it for 10–15 minutes before rinsing. Repeat the rinse every 2–3 days until the infestation is cleared.
How should vinegar be diluted for hair against lice? - in detail
Vinegar can be used as a non‑chemical aid to loosen lice and nits from hair. The effectiveness of the treatment depends on the correct dilution, contact time, and thorough rinsing.
A typical preparation uses white distilled or apple cider vinegar at a concentration of 5 % acetic acid. Dilute the vinegar with water to achieve a solution that is gentle enough for the scalp but still acidic enough to break the glue that holds nits to hair shafts.
Recommended dilution ratios
- 1 part vinegar : 1 part water (1:1) – yields a 2.5 % acetic acid solution, suitable for most children and adults.
- 1 part vinegar : 2 parts water (1:2) – yields a 1.7 % solution, advisable for sensitive scalps or very young children.
- 1 part vinegar : 3 parts water (1:3) – yields a 1.3 % solution, used when irritation occurs with stronger mixtures.
Preparation steps
- Measure the required amount of vinegar and water using a clean container.
- Mix thoroughly to ensure a uniform solution.
- Optionally, add a few drops of a mild, hypoallergenic conditioner to reduce hair dryness.
Application procedure
- Saturate the hair with the diluted solution, ensuring full coverage from roots to tips.
- Cover the head with a plastic shower cap or towel to retain moisture.
- Leave the mixture on for 15–30 minutes; longer exposure may increase nit loosening but also raises the risk of scalp irritation.
- Comb the hair with a fine-tooth nit comb, removing detached nits after each pass.
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water, then wash with a regular shampoo to eliminate residual vinegar.
Safety considerations
- Perform a patch test on a small scalp area before full application.
- Do not use undiluted vinegar; the high acidity can cause burns and severe irritation.
- Avoid the solution on broken skin or open wounds.
- Discontinue use if redness, itching, or burning intensifies, and consult a healthcare professional.
Following these guidelines provides a controlled, low‑risk method for using vinegar to assist in lice removal.