How to remove lice using alcohol?

How to remove lice using alcohol? - briefly

Apply 70% isopropyl alcohol to the scalp and hair, saturating the area for several minutes to kill the insects. Afterward, comb out the dead lice and nits with a fine-toothed comb and repeat the treatment after 24–48 hours to ensure complete removal.

How to remove lice using alcohol? - in detail

Alcohol can be employed as a topical agent to eradicate head lice when applied correctly. The following protocol outlines the necessary steps, safety considerations, and post‑treatment care.

1. Select the appropriate solution

   • Use 70 % isopropyl alcohol or 80–90 % ethanol. Lower concentrations lack sufficient ovicidal activity; higher concentrations increase skin irritation.

2. Prepare the scalp

   • Separate hair into sections of 2–3 cm using a fine‑toothed comb.
   • Ensure the area is free of conditioners, oils, or other residues that could impede alcohol penetration.

3. Apply the alcohol

   • Saturate a clean cotton ball or spray bottle with the chosen solution.
   • Apply generously to the scalp and hair, focusing on the nape, behind the ears, and any visible nits.
   • Allow the liquid to remain for 5–7 minutes; the solvent will desiccate both adult insects and eggs.

4. Mechanical removal

   • After the exposure period, comb the hair with a fine lice comb, removing dead insects and empty shells.
   • Rinse the hair with lukewarm water and a mild, non‑oil‑based shampoo to eliminate residual alcohol.

5. Repeat the cycle

   • Perform the treatment a second time 7–10 days later to address any newly hatched nymphs that survived the initial application.

6. Safety precautions

   • Test a small skin area before full application to detect hypersensitivity.
   • Avoid use on children under 2 years, on broken skin, or on individuals with known alcohol intolerance.
   • Ensure adequate ventilation; inhalation of vapors can cause respiratory irritation.
   • Do not combine alcohol with flammable substances or heat sources.

7. Post‑treatment monitoring

   • Inspect the scalp daily for live lice or viable nits.
   • Maintain regular combing for two weeks to confirm eradication.

Alcohol acts by disrupting the exoskeleton and dehydrating the organism, leading to rapid mortality. Proper concentration, exposure time, and mechanical removal are essential for complete elimination. Failure to follow these parameters may result in incomplete treatment and reinfestation.