How to kill lice with kerosene, how long to leave? - briefly
Apply a small amount of kerosene to the affected hair, let it sit for 10–15 minutes, then wash thoroughly with soap and water. Do not exceed this time, as prolonged exposure can irritate skin and damage hair.
How to kill lice with kerosene, how long to leave? - in detail
Kerosene can be employed as a topical agent to eliminate head‑lice infestations. The procedure begins with a thorough wash of the hair using a mild shampoo, followed by a gentle towel‑dry. Apply a thin layer of kerosene to the scalp, ensuring coverage of the hair shaft and roots; excess liquid should be avoided to reduce the risk of skin irritation.
The recommended contact period ranges from 30 to 45 minutes. This interval allows the solvent to penetrate the insect exoskeleton, causing desiccation and death, while limiting exposure that could provoke dermatitis. After the elapsed time, remove the kerosene by rinsing the hair with warm water and a second wash of shampoo to eliminate residues.
Key considerations for safe execution:
- Perform a patch test on a small skin area 24 hours before full application; discontinue if redness, itching, or swelling occurs.
- Conduct the treatment in a well‑ventilated space to prevent inhalation of vapors.
- Keep the substance away from open flames or hot surfaces; kerosene is flammable.
- Use gloves and protective clothing to avoid direct skin contact during handling.
- Store the product out of reach of children and pets.
Repeated applications may be necessary if nymphs survive the initial exposure. A follow‑up treatment after 7–10 days, coinciding with the hatching cycle, increases the likelihood of complete eradication.
Alternative methods, such as permethrin‑based shampoos or manual removal with a fine‑toothed comb, present lower toxicity profiles and should be considered for individuals with sensitive skin or respiratory conditions.