Rubbing alcohol is one of several treatments to kill lice and nits in combs, brushes and headgear. Doctors recommend an over-the-counter medicated shampoo, cream rinse or lotion to kill the lice directly on the head, according to the website KidsHealth.com. By following several measures to kill lice and nits, including using rubbing alcohol to kill infected head related items, lice and nits could possibly be gone within seven to 10 days.
Submerse combs and brushes used by the person with lice and nits in rubbing alcohol for one hour. The rubbing alcohol will kill the lice and nits and prevent the spread of the infestation to others.
Disinfect headgear, such as helmets or hats, with rubbing alcohol by wiping a cotton ball or rag saturated with rubbing alcohol over the entire surface. Disinfecting the commonly worn headgear will prevent the spread and recurrence of lice and nits.
Repeat disinfecting procedures with rubbing alcohol combs and brushes after lice and nits have been removed from body hair to prevent possible reoccurrence.
Warning
Some websites suggest using rubbing alcohol directly on the head to kill lice and nits. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services recommends avoiding the use of potentially flammable substance to kill the insects and suggests using a medicated shampoo with 1 percent permethrin to kill lice and nits on body hair.