How to get rid of lice with lacquer? - briefly
Apply clear nail lacquer to the hair, saturating each strand and allowing it to dry, then remove the nits with a fine-toothed lice comb; repeat the process after 24–48 hours to eradicate any newly hatched insects.
How to get rid of lice with lacquer? - in detail
Lacquer can be employed as a rapid, contact‑based method for eliminating head‑lice infestations. The active principle is the solvent in the lacquer, which suffocates the insects and disrupts their exoskeleton. Proper application and safety measures are essential to achieve complete eradication while protecting the scalp and hair.
First, select a clear, non‑toxic nail polish that contains only the base solvent and no pigments or added chemicals that could irritate the skin. Acetone‑free formulas are preferable because they reduce the risk of dryness and burning. Verify that the product complies with cosmetic safety standards.
Second, prepare the hair. Separate the strands into manageable sections using a fine‑tooth comb. Ensure the scalp is clean and dry; moisture interferes with the lacquer’s ability to coat the lice and nits.
Third, apply the lacquer. Using the brush, saturate each section from root to tip, making sure the liquid reaches the scalp surface. The coating must be thick enough to create a continuous film but not so excessive that it drips. After covering all sections, allow the product to dry for 5–7 minutes. The drying time guarantees that the solvent has penetrated the insects’ respiratory openings.
Fourth, leave the lacquer in place for at least 30 minutes. This interval provides sufficient exposure for the lice to suffocate and for the nits to become brittle. During this period, keep the hair covered with a shower cap to prevent evaporation.
Fifth, remove the residue. Rinse the hair with lukewarm water and a mild shampoo, then comb through with a fine‑tooth nit comb to extract dead insects and loosen broken shells. Repeat the combing process at 24‑hour intervals for three consecutive days to capture any newly hatched lice.
Safety considerations include:
- Conduct a patch test on a small skin area 24 hours before full application to detect allergic reactions.
- Avoid using lacquer on broken or inflamed scalp skin.
- Do not apply to children younger than six months; their skin is more permeable.
- Keep the product away from eyes and mucous membranes.
If symptoms persist after two treatment cycles, consult a healthcare professional for alternative or adjunctive therapies. Proper hygiene—regular washing of bedding, hats, and personal items—supplements the lacquer method and reduces the chance of reinfestation.