How should vinegar be prepared for washing the head to treat lice? - briefly
Combine one part white distilled vinegar with three parts lukewarm water, apply the solution to the scalp, leave for 5–10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Use this mixture once daily until lice are eliminated.
How should vinegar be prepared for washing the head to treat lice? - in detail
Vinegar intended for head washing against lice should be a clear, unflavored white distillate with an acidity of 5 % (approximately 0.5 % acetic acid). Dilution is essential; mix one part vinegar with three parts lukewarm water to achieve a solution that is safe for scalp contact while retaining enough acidity to loosen nits. Use water at 35–38 °C; water that is too hot may cause skin irritation, and water that is too cold reduces the solution’s effectiveness.
Prepare the mixture immediately before use. Measure the volume with a clean container, pour the vinegar into the water, and stir gently to avoid creating bubbles that could be inhaled. Transfer the solution to a spray bottle or a clean cup for application.
Application steps:
- Wet the hair with plain lukewarm water; ensure strands are fully saturated.
- Pour or spray the vinegar‑water solution over the scalp, focusing on the hairline, behind the ears, and the nape of the neck.
- Massage the scalp gently for 2–3 minutes to allow the acid to penetrate the hair shaft and loosen the egg shells.
- Leave the solution on for an additional 5 minutes; do not rinse immediately.
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water, then comb the hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb, removing detached nits and lice.
- Repeat the process every 24 hours for three consecutive days to break the lice life cycle.
Safety considerations:
- Conduct a patch test on a small skin area 30 minutes before full application; discontinue if redness or burning occurs.
- Avoid contact with eyes; if accidental exposure happens, rinse with copious water.
- Do not use the solution on broken skin or irritated scalp.
- Store any unused mixture in a sealed container at room temperature; discard after 24 hours to prevent bacterial growth.
Following these precise preparation and application guidelines maximizes the likelihood of eliminating lice while minimizing discomfort or adverse reactions.