How to remove lice with hydrogen peroxide? - briefly
Apply a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution to the scalp, massage gently, and let it sit for 10–15 minutes before rinsing. After washing, use a fine-toothed lice comb to remove dead insects and nits.
How to remove lice with hydrogen peroxide? - in detail
Hydrogen peroxide can be employed as an effective agent against head‑lice infestations when applied correctly. The solution acts as a potent oxidizer that damages the exoskeleton and respiratory system of the insects, leading to rapid mortality.
Preparation
- Use a 3 % concentration, the same strength sold for household first‑aid. Higher concentrations increase the risk of scalp irritation and should be avoided.
- Dilute the peroxide with an equal volume of distilled water to reduce the potential for skin burns, especially for children or individuals with sensitive skin.
- Store the mixture in an opaque bottle to prevent decomposition from light exposure.
Application procedure
- Separate the hair into sections of about 2 cm using a fine‑toothed comb.
- Saturate each section with the diluted peroxide, ensuring the liquid reaches the scalp and covers all strands.
- Cover the treated area with a plastic cap or cling film to maintain moisture for 10–15 minutes.
- After the exposure period, rinse the hair thoroughly with lukewarm water.
- Immediately follow with a fine‑toothed nit comb, moving from the scalp outward to remove dead insects and nits.
- Repeat the entire process after 48 hours, as newly hatched lice may emerge from surviving eggs.
Safety considerations
- Conduct a patch test on a small scalp area 30 minutes before full application; discontinue if redness, itching, or burning occurs.
- Avoid use on broken skin, open wounds, or irritated scalp.
- Do not apply to infants under six months, as their skin is more permeable.
- Keep the solution away from eyes; if contact occurs, rinse immediately with copious water.
Post‑treatment measures
- Wash all bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Vacuum upholstered furniture and carpets to eliminate stray insects.
- Maintain regular combing sessions for one week to verify that no live lice reappear.
When executed with precision, hydrogen peroxide offers a chemically simple, inexpensive, and readily available method for eradicating head‑lice infestations while minimizing reliance on conventional insecticidal shampoos.