How to poison lice with vinegar?

How to poison lice with vinegar? - briefly

Apply undiluted white vinegar directly to the infested area, let it remain for several minutes, then rinse; the acidity damages the insects’ exoskeletons and suffocates them. Repeat the process daily until no lice are detected.

How to poison lice with vinegar? - in detail

Vinegar’s acidic composition can disrupt the protective coating of head‑lice, making it easier to remove them. The following protocol outlines a reliable approach for using white distilled vinegar as a lice‑killing agent.

1. Preparation of the solution

   • Mix equal parts of 5 % white vinegar and lukewarm water in a spray bottle.
   • Add a few drops of essential oil (e.g., tea tree or lavender) only if skin sensitivity is not a concern; this step is optional and does not affect efficacy.

2. Application to hair

   • Dampen the scalp and hair with the solution, ensuring thorough coverage from roots to tips.
   • Use a fine‑tooth comb to distribute the liquid evenly, focusing on areas where nits are visible.

3. Incubation period

   • Leave the vinegar mixture on the scalp for 15–20 minutes. The low pH penetrates the exoskeleton, causing dehydration of the insects.

4. Mechanical removal

   • After the incubation, comb the hair with a nit‑comb, starting at the scalp and moving outward in successive passes.
   • Wipe the comb with a clean cloth after each pass to collect dislodged lice and nits.

5. Rinsing

   • Rinse hair with lukewarm water; avoid shampooing immediately, as the residual acidity enhances the lethal effect.

6. Repeat treatment

   • Perform the entire procedure every 3–4 days for two weeks. This schedule addresses newly hatched lice that survive the first application.

7. Precautions

   • Test the solution on a small skin area 30 minutes before full application to rule out irritation.
   • Do not apply to broken skin, eyes, or mucous membranes.
   • Keep the mixture away from children’s toys and surfaces that could be damaged by acidity.

8. Complementary measures

   • Wash bedding, hats, and hair accessories in hot water (≥ 60 °C) or seal them in a plastic bag for at least 48 hours.
   • Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture to remove stray insects.

By adhering to this systematic regimen, vinegar can serve as an effective, low‑cost alternative to chemical pediculicides, provided that the protocol is followed consistently and safety guidelines are observed.