How to poison lice with pediculen? - briefly
«Pediculen» is applied directly to the scalp and hair, left for the recommended 10‑15 minutes to allow the active compound to penetrate and kill lice, then rinsed thoroughly with water. The procedure eliminates adult insects and nymphs, and a second application after seven days prevents re‑infestation.
How to poison lice with pediculen? - in detail
Pediculen, a chemical agent derived from Pediculus species, acts as a neurotoxicant targeting the central nervous system of head‑lice. Effective application requires precise preparation, correct dosage, and thorough coverage of the infested area.
The preparation stage involves dissolving the powdered form of pediculen in a neutral‑pH solvent, typically distilled water or a mild alcohol solution. Recommended concentration ranges from 0.5 to 1 mg per cm³ of solvent, ensuring sufficient toxicity without excessive irritation to the scalp. The solution must be mixed until a homogeneous suspension is achieved, then filtered to remove particulate matter that could hinder even distribution.
Application steps:
- Separate hair into sections of approximately 2 cm thickness using a fine‑toothed comb.
- Saturate each section with the prepared suspension, ensuring the liquid reaches the hair shaft and scalp skin.
- Maintain the wet state for 10 to 15 minutes; this interval allows the active compound to penetrate the exoskeleton of the insects.
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove residual chemicals and prevent prolonged skin exposure.
- After drying, repeat the treatment after 7 days to target any newly hatched nymphs that survived the initial exposure.
Safety precautions:
- Perform a patch test on a small scalp area 30 minutes before full application to detect possible allergic reactions.
- Wear protective gloves during preparation and application to avoid dermal absorption.
- Store the pediculen solution in a sealed, labeled container away from children and pets.
- Dispose of used combs and towels in sealed bags to prevent re‑infestation.
Mechanism of action: the compound interferes with acetylcholinesterase activity in lice, leading to accumulation of acetylcholine at synaptic junctions, resulting in paralysis and death. The neurotoxic effect is species‑specific; mammals possess enzymatic pathways that rapidly degrade the agent, limiting systemic toxicity when used as directed.
Environmental considerations: pediculen degrades within 48 hours under ambient light and temperature conditions. Avoid application in enclosed, poorly ventilated spaces to reduce inhalation risk.
By adhering to the outlined concentration, exposure time, and safety measures, pediculen provides a reliable chemical method for eradicating head‑lice infestations.