How to remove lice using vinegar? - briefly
Apply undiluted white vinegar to the scalp, cover with a shower cap for 10–15 minutes, then comb out lice and nits with a fine‑tooth lice comb; repeat the treatment daily for several days to ensure complete removal.
How to remove lice using vinegar? - in detail
Vinegar can be employed as a chemical agent that loosens the cement that attaches lice eggs (nits) to hair shafts, making them easier to detach. The solution must be applied correctly to achieve reliable results and to avoid scalp irritation.
First, choose a white distilled vinegar with at least 5 % acetic acid. Dilute it with an equal volume of warm water; pure vinegar may cause excessive burning. Prepare enough mixture to saturate the entire scalp and hair.
Second, separate the hair into sections of approximately 2–3 cm. Apply the diluted vinegar generously to each section, ensuring that the liquid reaches the scalp and covers the length of the hair. Use a spray bottle or a cup to pour the solution, then massage gently for 30 seconds to allow the acid to penetrate the nits’ attachment.
Third, leave the liquid on the hair for 10–15 minutes. During this period, the acetic acid softens the nit glue, reducing its grip. Do not rinse the hair until the time has elapsed.
Fourth, comb through the wet hair with a fine-toothed nit comb. Start at the scalp and pull the comb straight down to the tip, wiping the comb on a clean tissue after each pass. Repeat this process for each hair section until no visible nits remain. Multiple combing sessions, spaced 2–3 days apart, are necessary because newly hatched lice may appear after the initial treatment.
Fifth, rinse the hair with lukewarm water and a mild shampoo to remove residual vinegar. Follow with a conditioner to restore moisture.
Sixth, repeat the entire procedure after 7–10 days to eliminate any lice that may have survived the first cycle. Consistent repetition is the only way to break the life cycle of the parasite.
Additional precautions:
- Perform a patch test on a small skin area 24 hours before the first application to detect possible allergic reactions.
- Avoid using vinegar on broken or inflamed scalp skin.
- Do not combine vinegar with other chemical treatments unless instructed by a healthcare professional, as interactions may increase irritation.
When executed with the outlined steps, vinegar serves as an inexpensive, readily available method for detaching lice eggs and reducing infestation without the need for prescription insecticides. Regular inspection of the hair and prompt re‑treatment ensure complete eradication.