How should vinegar be prepared to treat lice? - briefly
Mix equal parts of white distilled vinegar and water to create a 50 % solution. Apply the mixture to the hair and scalp, leave for 10–15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
How should vinegar be prepared to treat lice? - in detail
Vinegar used for lice control should be a clear, unflavored, 5 % acetic acid solution such as distilled white vinegar or raw apple cider vinegar. The preparation process includes dilution, temperature control, and proper storage.
A typical mixture consists of one part vinegar to three parts lukewarm water (approximately 37 °C). The ratio yields a solution with a final acetic acid concentration of about 1.25 %, which is sufficient to loosen nits without causing excessive irritation. Use a clean measuring cup and a sterile container; combine the liquids, stir gently, and allow the solution to reach room temperature before application.
Key preparation steps:
- Measure 250 ml of vinegar and 750 ml of water.
- Warm the water to 37 °C; avoid temperatures above 40 °C to prevent scalp burns.
- Add the vinegar to the water slowly while stirring.
- Transfer the mixture to a spray bottle or a clean applicator bottle.
- Label the container with the preparation date; store in a cool, dark place for no longer than 48 hours.
Application guidelines:
- Saturate the hair and scalp with the solution, ensuring full coverage of strands and roots.
- Leave the liquid on for 5–10 minutes; the acidic environment helps dissolve the glue that attaches nits to hair shafts.
- Comb the hair with a fine-toothed lice comb to remove loosened nits.
- Rinse with lukewarm water; avoid using harsh shampoos immediately after treatment.
Safety considerations:
- Perform a patch test on a small skin area 15 minutes before full application to detect possible sensitivity.
- Do not use on broken skin, open wounds, or irritated scalp.
- Children under six months should not receive vinegar treatments; consult a healthcare professional for infants.
Repeat the procedure every 5–7 days for two to three cycles to target newly hatched lice, as the solution does not kill live insects but facilitates nits removal. Combining the vinegar rinse with mechanical combing maximizes efficacy and reduces the likelihood of reinfestation.