How to wash the head with vinegar to get rid of lice?

How to wash the head with vinegar to get rid of lice? - briefly

Mix equal parts white vinegar and water, saturate the scalp, let it sit for 15 minutes, then comb through with a fine-toothed lice comb and rinse thoroughly. Repeat the process every 2–3 days for two weeks to ensure all nits are removed.

How to wash the head with vinegar to get rid of lice? - in detail

Vinegar can be an effective element in a lice‑removal routine when applied correctly. Begin by selecting a clear, unflavored apple cider or white distilled vinegar with at least 5 % acidity. Dilute the liquid with an equal part of warm water to reduce irritation while preserving the acetic acid concentration that loosens the nits’ attachment.

  1. Preparation of the scalp
    • Comb the hair dry with a fine‑toothed lice comb to eliminate loose eggs and adult insects.
    • Section the hair into manageable strands using clips or hair ties.

  2. Application of the solution
    • Saturate each section thoroughly, ensuring the mixture reaches the roots and covers the entire scalp.
    • Massage gently for 2–3 minutes; the acidic medium penetrates the hair shaft and weakens the cement that binds nits to the hair cuticle.

  3. Soaking period
    • Allow the solution to remain on the hair for 15–20 minutes. Cover the head with a shower cap to prevent evaporation and maintain consistent exposure.

  4. Rinsing and combing
    • Rinse with lukewarm water, avoiding hot water that could increase scalp sensitivity.
    • While the hair is still damp, run a fine‑toothed lice comb from the scalp outward, cleaning the comb after each pass. Repeat combing for the entire head to remove detached nits and any surviving lice.

  5. Repeat treatment
    • Conduct a second application 7–10 days after the initial session to target newly hatched lice that may have survived the first round. Follow the same steps, ensuring thorough combing each time.

  6. Preventive measures
    • Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) or seal them in a plastic bag for two weeks.
    • Avoid sharing combs, hats, or hair accessories until the infestation is fully resolved.

By adhering to this protocol, the acidic environment created by the diluted vinegar disrupts the adhesive substance securing the eggs, while systematic combing physically removes both live insects and their remnants. Consistent repetition and proper hygiene are essential to achieve complete eradication.