How to remove lice on the head with kerosene?

How to remove lice on the head with kerosene? - briefly

Apply a small amount of petroleum kerosene to the scalp, cover with a towel for 10‑15 minutes, then comb out the lice and nits and wash the hair thoroughly with shampoo. This technique is hazardous, can irritate skin, and is not endorsed by medical professionals.

How to remove lice on the head with kerosene? - in detail

Applying a petroleum distillate such as kerosene to eliminate head lice requires strict safety measures. The substance is flammable, irritant, and can be absorbed through the skin, so preparation and post‑treatment care are essential.

Materials needed

• Pure kerosene (no additives)
• Protective gloves
• Old towels or disposable sheets
• Wide‑tooth comb designed for lice removal
• Mild shampoo
• Warm water
• Clean clothing for after treatment
• Ventilated area or outdoor space

Procedure

1. Prepare the environment

   • Work in a well‑ventilated room or outdoors.
   • Lay towels on the surface to catch any spills.

2. Protect the person

   • Wear gloves to avoid skin contact.
   • Cover clothing with a disposable sheet to prevent staining.

3. Apply the kerosene

   • Dispense a small amount (approximately one teaspoon) onto the scalp, focusing on the nape and behind the ears where lice concentrate.
   • Massage gently for 30–45 seconds to ensure the liquid reaches the hair shafts.

4. Allow contact time

   • Let the liquid remain for 5–7 minutes. Do not exceed this period to reduce irritation risk.

5. Comb out the insects

   • Using the wide‑tooth comb, systematically work through each section of hair from scalp to tip.
   • Wipe the comb on a towel after each pass to remove captured lice and nits.

6. Rinse thoroughly

   • Wash the hair with warm water and a mild shampoo to remove all residues.
   • Rinse repeatedly until no oily film is detectable.

7. Dry and inspect

   • Pat hair dry with a clean towel.
   • Examine the scalp for remaining live lice; repeat combing if necessary.

8. Post‑treatment care

   • Dispose of used towels and gloves in a sealed bag.
   • Launder any clothing that contacted the kerosene separately.

Precautions

• Do not apply kerosene to broken skin, open wounds, or irritated scalp.
• Avoid use on children under six years of age.
• Keep away from open flames, sparks, or hot surfaces during and after application.
• If burning, itching, or redness occurs, rinse immediately with copious water and seek medical attention.

Effectiveness and limitations

• The solvent can drown lice and loosen nits, facilitating removal by combing.
• It does not guarantee eradication of all eggs; a second treatment after 7–10 days may be required to address newly hatched insects.
• Safer, approved pediculicides are available and generally recommended for routine use.

Conclusion Using a petroleum distillate can eliminate head lice when performed with strict adherence to safety protocols, thorough combing, and immediate cleansing. The method carries significant health risks and should be considered only when conventional treatments are unavailable or ineffective.