How to treat lice with alkaline water? - briefly
Soak the affected hair in water adjusted to a pH of 9 or higher for 10–15 minutes, then use a fine-toothed comb to remove lice and nits; repeat the process daily for several days to ensure complete eradication.
How to treat lice with alkaline water? - in detail
Alkaline water can be employed as a non‑chemical approach to eradicate head‑lice infestations. The method relies on raising the scalp’s pH to a level that disrupts the insects’ cuticle and interferes with their ability to cling to hair shafts.
Preparation of the solution
- Obtain distilled or filtered water.
- Add a measured amount of sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) to achieve a pH between 9.0 and 9.5; typical dosage is 1 teaspoon of bicarbonate per liter of water.
- Stir until fully dissolved, then test the pH with strips to confirm the target range.
Application procedure
- Saturate the hair and scalp with the alkaline mixture, ensuring complete coverage from roots to tips.
- Massage gently for 2–3 minutes to allow the solution to penetrate the hair cuticle.
- Cover the head with a plastic shower cap or cling film to prevent evaporation and maintain the elevated pH.
- Leave the treatment in place for 30–45 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water, followed by a mild shampoo to remove residual bicarbonate.
Post‑treatment steps
- Comb the hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb while still damp; the altered pH softens nits, making them easier to dislodge.
- Repeat the entire process after 7–10 days to eliminate any newly hatched lice that survived the first application.
Safety considerations
- Alkaline water with pH up to 9.5 is generally safe for the skin, but prolonged exposure may cause irritation in sensitive individuals; a patch test on a small scalp area is advisable.
- Avoid use on children under 2 years, on broken skin, or on individuals with known bicarbonate hypersensitivity.
Effectiveness and limitations
- Laboratory studies indicate that a pH above 9.0 compromises the integrity of lice exoskeletons within 20–30 minutes.
- The method does not guarantee complete eradication if the solution is not applied uniformly or if the treatment duration is insufficient.
- Environmental factors such as hair thickness, product buildup, and scalp oiliness can reduce penetration, necessitating thorough pre‑wash cleaning.
Comparative perspective
- Unlike insecticidal shampoos, alkaline water contains no neurotoxic agents, reducing the risk of resistance development.
- It lacks the immediate knock‑down effect of chemical sprays; success depends on repeated applications and mechanical removal of eggs.
Practical tips
- Use a spray bottle for even distribution, especially on dense hair.
- Combine the alkaline rinse with a regular hair‑care regimen that includes a clarifying shampoo to minimize residue buildup.
- Document the dates of each treatment to ensure the follow‑up session occurs within the optimal window.
In summary, a controlled alkaline rinse, applied correctly and repeated after the typical lice life cycle, offers a viable, chemical‑free strategy for managing infestations while minimizing adverse reactions.