How to dilute 70% vinegar to get rid of lice? - briefly
To obtain a safe concentration for lice treatment, combine one part 70 % acetic acid solution with thirteen parts water, yielding roughly a 5 % solution. Apply the diluted mixture to the hair, leave for 10–15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
How to dilute 70% vinegar to get rid of lice? - in detail
Diluting a 70 % acetic acid solution to a concentration suitable for lice eradication requires precise measurement and safety precautions.
First, determine the target strength. Research and anecdotal reports indicate that a 5 % solution is effective while remaining tolerable for scalp application.
Calculation of dilution ratio
- Desired concentration: 5 %
- Stock concentration: 70 %
Use the formula C₁V₁ = C₂V₂, where C₁ and V₁ are the concentration and volume of the stock, and C₂ and V₂ are those of the final mixture.
V₁ = (C₂ × V₂) ÷ C₁
For a 500 ml final volume:
V₁ = (5 % × 500 ml) ÷ 70 % ≈ 35.7 ml
Thus, mix approximately 36 ml of the 70 % vinegar with 464 ml of distilled water.
Procedure
- Wear disposable gloves and eye protection.
- Measure the required amount of concentrated vinegar with a calibrated syringe or graduated cylinder.
- Add the measured vinegar to a clean container.
- Slowly pour distilled water into the container while stirring gently to ensure uniform distribution.
- Label the mixture with concentration, date of preparation, and safety warnings.
Application
- Apply the diluted solution to dry hair, ensuring complete coverage of the scalp and hair shafts.
- Allow the liquid to remain for 10–15 minutes.
- Comb through with a fine-toothed lice comb to remove dead nits and insects.
- Rinse hair thoroughly with lukewarm water; do not use hot water, which may cause scalp irritation.
Safety considerations
- Test a small skin area before full application to detect possible allergic reactions.
- Do not use on children under two years of age or on individuals with open wounds, eczema, or severe scalp sensitivity.
- Store the prepared solution in a sealed, child‑proof container at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. Discard after 24 hours to prevent bacterial growth.
Additional tips
- Repeat the treatment after seven days to eliminate any newly hatched lice.
- Combine the solution with regular combing sessions for maximum efficacy.
- Maintain clean bedding and personal items; wash them in hot water or seal them in plastic bags for 48 hours.
Following these steps yields a reliable, low‑risk method for preparing and using a diluted acetic acid solution to combat head lice.