How to remove lice from a child using vinegar? - briefly
Apply a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water to the child's scalp, leave it covered with a shower cap for about 15 minutes, then remove lice and nits using a fine-toothed comb. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and repeat the process after 48 hours to eliminate any newly hatched insects.
How to remove lice from a child using vinegar? - in detail
Vinegar can be an effective adjunct in eliminating head‑lice infestations in children when combined with a thorough combing routine. The method relies on acetic acid’s ability to loosen the adhesive that lice use to attach their eggs (nits) to hair shafts, making them easier to remove.
Materials required
- White distilled vinegar (5 % acidity) or apple‑cider vinegar
- Fine‑toothed nit comb (preferably stainless steel)
- Wide‑toothed comb
- Plastic shower cap or towel
- Warm water
- Mild, pediatric‑safe shampoo
- Towels for drying
Procedure
- Wash the child’s hair with a gentle shampoo, rinse thoroughly, and pat dry until damp but not soaking.
- Saturate the scalp and hair with vinegar, ensuring full coverage from roots to tips. Allow the liquid to sit for 5–10 minutes; the acidity loosens the cement that secures nits.
- Cover the head with a shower cap for an additional 10 minutes to prevent evaporation and maintain contact.
- Remove the cap, then use the wide‑toothed comb to detangle hair, reducing resistance during nit removal.
- Starting at the scalp, run the nit comb through small sections (approximately 1 inch wide), pulling each strand taut and moving the comb slowly from root to tip. After each pass, wipe the comb blade with a tissue to discard captured lice and nits.
- Repeat the combing process for the entire head, section by section, until no live insects or eggs are visible. Perform this session once daily for 7–10 days to catch any newly hatched lice.
- After the final combing, rinse the hair with warm water, then dry with a clean towel.
Additional recommendations
- Conduct the treatment in a well‑ventilated area to avoid irritation from vinegar fumes.
- Inspect the child’s hair under bright light after each session; any missed nits should be removed immediately.
- Wash all combs, caps, and towels in hot water (≥ 60 °C) after each use to eliminate residual insects.
- Avoid applying vinegar directly to irritated or broken skin; discontinue if redness or discomfort occurs.
Precautions
- Do not use undiluted vinegar on infants younger than 6 months; consult a pediatrician before treatment.
- Combine vinegar with a conventional pediculicide only under professional guidance, as simultaneous use may reduce efficacy.
- Persistent infestation after two weeks of consistent combing indicates possible resistance; seek medical advice for alternative treatments.