Head Lice: Why Kerosene Is a Risky Treatment and What to Use Instead

A friend recently discovered she had head lice and was advised at a salon to apply kerosene mixed with camphor. I was surprised that this is still being recommended. Kerosene is not a safe lice treatment. It can irritate the scalp, damage the hair and, because it is highly flammable, create a serious fire risk. It is safer to ask a pharmacist or healthcare professional about suitable treatments, including permethrin-based products or ivermectin where appropriate. Treatment should not stop with the hair. Wash recently used bedding, pillowcases, hats and clothing, and clean combs and brushes to help prevent reinfestation. Have you dealt with head lice before? What safe treatment worked for you?

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