Apple cider vinegar has multiple benefits for your hair’s health and strength. But Does Apple Cider Vinegar Kill Lice? Let’s find out!
Besides a kitchen staple, apple cider vinegar is a popular product in various home remedies. But Does Apple Cider Vinegar Kill Lice? Keep reading this article.
Have a look at these homemade lice spray for furniture here
What Is Lice?
Lice (singular: louse) are flightless insects that thrive on human hair and feast on their blood. There are three species of lice, namely – pubic, head, and body lice. However, the specie that affects most people is head lice. An adult female head louse can lay up to 6-8 eggs per day. Their infestation can cause severe itching and irritation on the scalp.
Does Apple Cider Vinegar Kill Lice?
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) does not kill lice. Many anecdotal reports are floating on the internet about its effectiveness, but there is no research to back up this claim. However, the acidic property of ACV weakens the glue that attaches nits to the hair shaft, thereby making the nit removal process easier.
How to Prevent Lice?
Head lice are contagious and can be transferred from one person to another. That’s why it’s necessary to follow the below-mentioned prevention tips.
- Do not sleep with a lice-infected person.
- Avoid hugging, kissing, or physical contact with such a person.
- If someone from your family is infected with head lice, it’s a good idea to clean the furniture and couches daily with this method.
- Wash your bed covers, pillowcases, clothes, and other washable items daily.
- Keep the unwashable items under direct sunlight for a whole day.
- Don’t share your clothes, comb, headphone, and other accessories, if you suspect someone may have head lice.
How to Get Rid of Lice?
As apple cider vinegar is ineffective, you can use these remedies to kill lice. But first, read the below-mentioned notes carefully.
1. DIY Mouthwash Lice Removal Remedy
If you are frustrated by these little pesky head lice, then try this mouthwash hack to eliminate them for good. This method is not scientifically proven yet, but some authoritative sources claim that it works.
Supplies
- Mouthwash (Listerine)
- Shampoo
- Shower Cap
- Metal Lice Comb
- Mixing Bowl
- Hair Dryer
Directions
- Add a sufficient amount of mouthwash into a mixing bowl.
- Now, apply it all over your hair and scalp evenly with your fingertips.
- Then, cover your strands with a shower cap and let it sit for 5-7 minutes.
- Once you’re done, wash your strands with shampoo, and dry them using a hairdryer.
- After that, run the lice comb to take out the dead lice and eggs.
- Repeat this method once a week, up to 2 to 3 weeks, to see noticeable effects.
2. Try Wet-Combing
Wet-combing is one of the easiest and cheapest methods to spot and eradicate head lice. But it’s a time-consuming activity.
Supplies
- A Fine Toothed Head Lice Comb
- Hair Conditioner
Directions
- After applying the hair conditioner, run a wide-toothed comb on each section of your strands from the roots to the ends around 3-4 times.
- After every stroke, clean the comb with tissue paper and check it for any nits, lice, or eggs.
- Do this process all over your strands and wash them afterward.
3. Olive Oil
According to this study, olive oil is an effective option to eliminate head lice.
Supplies
- Organic Olive Oil
- Shower Cap
Directions
- Before going to bed, cover your hair with enough organic olive oil and wear a head cap.
- Wait overnight and rinse your strands the very next day.
- Redo this hack twice or thrice a week until there are no signs of lice presence.
4. Coconut Oil
Besides moisturizing skin, coconut oil is a promising natural remedy to combat head lice. It works by suffocating them.
Supplies
- Coconut Oil
- Shower Cap
Directions
- Apply enough pure coconut oil on each section of your strands and wear a shower cap.
- Leave it overnight or for at least 3-4 hours.
- Once the waiting period is over, wash your hair as usual.
- Repeat this remedy 3-4 times a week.
Notes:
- First, try the above methods on a small portion of your hair to ensure you are not getting any side effects.
- If you have any scalp issues, don’t use the mouthwash remedy, as it can cause burning sensations.
- If the mouthwash gets into your eyes, rinse them with lots of tap water and contact your doctor immediately.
Here are some apple cider vinegar uses for home and garden