How to rinse hair with vinegar to get rid of lice and nits? - briefly
Combine white vinegar with water in a 1:1 ratio, saturate the scalp and hair, leave for 10–15 minutes, then use a fine-toothed nit comb to remove lice and eggs; rinse thoroughly. Repeat the treatment after 7 days to eliminate any hatchlings.
How to rinse hair with vinegar to get rid of lice and nits? - in detail
Vinegar works as a mild acid that loosens the glue that holds eggs to hair shafts. To use it effectively, follow these steps:
- Choose a clear, distilled white vinegar with at least 5 % acidity. Apple cider vinegar may be used, but its lower acidity can reduce efficacy.
- Dilute the liquid with warm water in a 1:1 ratio. Excessive concentration can irritate the scalp, while too much water diminishes the acidic effect.
- Wet the hair thoroughly, then apply the solution from roots to tips, ensuring full coverage. Use a spray bottle or a cup to pour the mixture over the scalp.
- Allow the mixture to remain for 5–10 minutes. During this period, the acid penetrates the adhesive layer, making the eggs easier to detach.
- Comb the hair with a fine-toothed nit comb. Start at the scalp and work outward, cleaning the comb after each pass to prevent re‑attachment.
- Rinse the hair with lukewarm water to remove residual vinegar. Follow with a gentle shampoo if desired, but avoid harsh chemicals that could mask the vinegar’s effect.
- Repeat the procedure every 2–3 days for a total of three applications. This schedule corresponds to the life cycle of lice, ensuring newly hatched insects are also targeted.
Additional considerations:
- Perform a patch test on a small scalp area before full application to rule out allergic reactions.
- For children, use a lower concentration (1 part vinegar to 2 parts water) and monitor for discomfort.
- Combine the rinse with regular manual removal of visible insects for optimal results.
The described method leverages the acidic property of vinegar to detach eggs, while the nit comb physically eliminates both lice and their remnants. Consistent repetition and thorough combing are essential to prevent reinfestation.