How to use charcoal water for lice? - briefly
Apply a solution of activated charcoal dissolved in water to the hair and scalp, let it sit for 5–10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly and comb out the insects with a fine-toothed lice comb. Repeat the process every 2–3 days until no live lice or nits remain.
How to use charcoal water for lice? - in detail
Charcoal water can be prepared and applied as a lice‑removing solution without resorting to chemical insecticides. The process involves three phases: preparation of the liquid, application to the scalp, and post‑treatment care.
To make the solution, combine activated charcoal powder with warm distilled water in a ratio of roughly one tablespoon of charcoal to one cup of water. Stir until the mixture becomes a uniform, dark suspension. Allow the mixture to sit for ten minutes; this settles larger particles and yields a clearer liquid. Strain the suspension through a fine cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean bottle. Store the bottle in a refrigerator and use within 48 hours to preserve potency.
Application steps:
- Separate hair into manageable sections using a fine‑tooth comb.
- Saturate each section with the charcoal liquid, ensuring the scalp and hair shafts are fully covered.
- Cover the treated area with a plastic shower cap to retain moisture and prevent drying.
- Leave the solution on for 30 minutes. The charcoal particles bind to the exoskeleton of the parasites, making them easier to remove.
- Remove the cap and rinse hair thoroughly with lukewarm water. Follow with a regular shampoo if desired.
- Comb the hair again with a fine‑tooth lice comb, removing dead insects and nits.
Safety considerations include performing a patch test on a small skin area 24 hours before full application to detect potential allergic reactions. Avoid use on broken skin, open wounds, or irritated scalps. Do not apply to children under six months without pediatric consultation.
For optimal results, repeat the treatment after seven days to eliminate any newly hatched lice. Maintain regular hair washing and avoid sharing combs, hats, or pillows to reduce reinfestation risk.