How to treat lice with benzyl benzoate? - briefly
Apply a 25 % benzyl‑benzoate preparation to clean, dry hair, leave it on for 24 hours, then rinse thoroughly; repeat the treatment after seven days to eradicate any newly hatched lice. Ensure that the scalp is not irritated and follow the product’s safety instructions.
How to treat lice with benzyl benzoate? - in detail
Benzyl benzoate is a topical acaricide and insecticide commonly employed against pediculosis. The compound penetrates the exoskeleton of lice, causing neurotoxic effects that lead to rapid immobilization and death.
The standard protocol begins with a thorough wet combing to remove nits and adult insects. After the scalp is rinsed and gently towel‑dried, a measured amount of 25 % benzyl benzoate solution is applied to the entire hair length, ensuring saturation of the hair shaft and scalp surface. The solution must remain in contact for 10 minutes; excess is then rinsed off with lukewarm water. A second application is recommended after 7–10 days to eliminate any newly hatched lice that survived the initial treatment.
Key considerations:
- Concentration – 25 % formulation provides optimal efficacy while minimizing irritation.
- Frequency – two applications spaced one week apart prevent re‑infestation.
- Coverage – complete wetting of hair and scalp is essential; missed areas reduce success rate.
- Post‑treatment – repeat wet combing after each application to extract residual nits.
- Safety – avoid use on infants under 2 months, on damaged skin, or on individuals with known hypersensitivity to aromatic esters. Mild erythema or itching may occur; symptomatic relief can be achieved with a non‑medicated moisturizer after rinsing.
- Precautions – do not combine with other pediculicidal agents containing pyrethrins or organophosphates, as antagonistic interactions have been reported.
Resistance monitoring indicates that benzyl benzoate retains activity against most head‑lice populations, though occasional reduced susceptibility has been observed in regions with extensive insecticide use. In such cases, alternative agents such as dimeticone or ivermectin may be considered.
Proper storage of the solution in a cool, dark place preserves potency. Discard any product that changes color or develops an off‑odor, as degradation may compromise effectiveness.
Overall, adherence to the outlined regimen—pre‑treatment combing, precise application, timed repeat dose, and post‑treatment inspection—ensures maximal eradication of lice with benzyl benzoate.