How to treat tar for lice? - briefly
Use a medicated lice shampoo—such as one containing permethrin or pyrethrin—followed by a thorough rinse, and repeat after 7–10 days to eliminate any newly hatched nits. If you prefer a tar‑based product, apply it exactly as directed, leave it on for the recommended time, then wash out and repeat the cycle.
How to treat tar for lice? - in detail
Tar, a thick, sticky substance derived from coal or petroleum, has historical use as a pediculicide. Effective application requires precise preparation, proper dosage, and safety precautions.
First, select a medical‑grade tar preparation formulated for scalp use. Over‑the‑counter products often contain a concentration of 10–15 % tar in a petroleum‑based vehicle. Higher concentrations increase efficacy but also the risk of irritation.
Second, prepare the scalp. Wash hair with a mild shampoo, rinse thoroughly, and towel‑dry until damp. Do not use conditioners or styling products, as they can create a barrier that reduces absorption.
Third, apply the tar solution. Using a disposable applicator brush, spread a thin, even layer over the entire scalp, focusing on the nape, behind the ears, and any visible nits. Avoid excessive buildup, which can cause greasiness and discomfort. Leave the preparation on for the time specified by the manufacturer, typically 30–45 minutes. During this period, cover the head with a plastic shower cap to prevent runoff and maintain humidity.
Fourth, remove the tar. Rinse hair with warm water and a gentle, tar‑compatible cleanser (often a coal‑tar shampoo). Massage the scalp to dislodge dead insects and residual product. Rinse until the water runs clear. Repeat the rinsing step if any oily residue remains.
Fifth, repeat the treatment. Lice eggs hatch within 7–10 days; a single application does not eradicate all newly emerged nymphs. Schedule a second application 7 days after the first, following the same protocol. A third session may be necessary for resistant infestations.
Safety considerations:
- Conduct a patch test on a small skin area 24 hours before full application to detect allergic reactions.
- Do not apply tar to broken skin, eczema, or psoriasis lesions.
- Keep the product away from eyes; immediate irrigation with water is required if contact occurs.
- Pregnant or nursing individuals should consult a healthcare professional before use, as systemic absorption, though minimal, is not fully studied.
- Children under 2 years of age are generally excluded from tar treatments due to heightened skin sensitivity.
After completing the regimen, inspect the hair with a fine‑tooth comb to verify the absence of live lice and nits. Regular combing for an additional two weeks helps confirm eradication and prevents reinfestation. Maintain hygiene by washing bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water and drying on high heat.
In summary, tar can be an effective lice‑control agent when applied correctly: choose a suitable concentration, prepare the scalp, apply a thin layer, allow adequate exposure, rinse thoroughly, repeat after one week, and observe safety protocols throughout the process.