How to get rid of head lice using vinegar? - briefly
Apply a mixture of one part white vinegar to two parts water to the scalp, cover with a shower cap for 30 minutes, then use a fine-toothed comb to remove lice and nits. Repeat the process after 7–10 days to eradicate any newly hatched insects.
How to get rid of head lice using vinegar? - in detail
Vinegar can be an effective agent for eliminating head‑lice infestations when applied correctly. The acidity of the solution loosens the glue that attaches nits to hair shafts, allowing them to be removed more easily. Follow the protocol below for maximum efficacy.
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Select the appropriate vinegar – Use white distilled vinegar or apple‑cider vinegar with a concentration of 5 % acetic acid. Dilution is unnecessary; undiluted liquid provides the optimal pH for breaking the nit adhesive.
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Prepare the hair – Wash the scalp with a regular shampoo to remove excess oil and debris. Rinse thoroughly and towel‑dry until the hair is damp but not dripping.
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Apply the vinegar – Pour a generous amount of the undiluted liquid over the entire scalp and hair, ensuring complete saturation of each strand. Use a spray bottle for even distribution if preferred.
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Allow contact time – Leave the vinegar on the hair for 10–15 minutes. During this period the acid penetrates the nit cement, weakening the bond.
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Comb out the debris – After the waiting period, use a fine‑toothed nit comb (spacing 0.2 mm) to systematically work from the scalp outward. Start at the crown, pull each section of hair taut, and slide the comb down in small increments. Wipe the comb on a white towel after each pass to monitor removed material.
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Rinse and repeat – Rinse the hair with lukewarm water. Repeat the entire process every 2–3 days for two weeks, covering the full life cycle of the louse and preventing newly hatched nits from maturing.
Precautions and additional recommendations
- Perform a patch test on a small skin area before full application to rule out irritation.
- Avoid using vinegar on broken scalp skin; the acidity may cause discomfort.
- Do not combine vinegar with strong alkaline substances, as the reaction can neutralize the effect.
- Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water (≥ 60 °C) or place them in a sealed bag for 48 hours to eliminate any surviving insects.
- For severe infestations, supplement the vinegar protocol with a pediculicide approved by health authorities.
By adhering to these steps, the acidic environment created by vinegar disrupts the attachment of lice eggs, enabling thorough removal and reducing the likelihood of re‑infestation.