How can I get rid of lice if nothing helps? - briefly
Apply a prescription‑strength pediculicide, repeat the treatment after seven days, and comb wet hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb after each application to eliminate remaining nits. If lice persist, seek medical advice for alternative oral or topical medication and thorough environmental cleaning.
How can I get rid of lice if nothing helps? - in detail
When conventional over‑the‑counter shampoos, combs, and home remedies prove ineffective, a systematic approach is required. The following protocol combines medical, environmental, and preventive measures to eradicate the infestation.
• Consult a healthcare professional for prescription‑strength pediculicides such as malathion, benzyl alcohol lotion, or ivermectin. These agents are applied according to the provider’s instructions, typically after a thorough wet‑combing session to remove nymphs and eggs.
• Perform a wet‑combing procedure with a fine‑toothed lice comb every 2–3 days for two weeks. Each session should last at least 30 minutes, focusing on the scalp, behind the ears, and the nape of the neck. Rinse the comb in hot, soapy water after each pass.
• Wash all personal items in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes. Items that cannot be laundered—such as hairbrushes, hats, and pillowcases—should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks, as lice cannot survive beyond 48 hours without a host.
• Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats thoroughly. Discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately after use.
• Apply a dimethicone‑based lotion or spray that suffocates lice without resistance issues. Follow the product label precisely, ensuring coverage of the entire scalp and hair shaft.
• If resistance persists, consider oral ivermectin under medical supervision. Dosage and duration are determined by weight and severity of infestation.
• Educate close contacts—family members, classmates, and caregivers—about the treatment plan. Encourage simultaneous treatment to prevent re‑infestation.
• Monitor the scalp daily for live insects or viable eggs. A follow‑up examination by a clinician after one week confirms treatment success; a second assessment after two weeks ensures complete eradication.
By integrating prescription medication, rigorous combing, thorough decontamination of personal and environmental items, and coordinated treatment of all contacts, the infestation can be eliminated even when standard remedies fail. «Effective control hinges on consistent application of each step and prompt medical guidance».