How to get rid of lice when shampoos don't work? - briefly
Apply a petroleum‑based oil such as olive or coconut to wet hair, comb through with a fine‑toothed nit comb to remove lice and nits, then wash and repeat in 7‑10 days. Clean all bedding, clothing, and personal items with hot water or seal them in plastic bags for two weeks.
How to get rid of lice when shampoos don't work? - in detail
When over‑the‑counter lice rinses prove ineffective, a systematic approach is required. The strategy combines mechanical removal, prescription‑strength agents, and thorough environmental decontamination.
First, isolate the affected individual to prevent cross‑contamination. Use a fine‑toothed lice comb on wet hair, applying a generous amount of conditioner or a silicone‑based oil to reduce slip. Work from the scalp outward, section by section, and wipe the comb on a white tissue after each pass. Discard each combed strand into a sealed bag. Repeat the combing process every 24 hours for at least seven days, covering the entire life cycle of the parasite.
Second, if the infestation persists after two combing cycles, introduce a prescription medication. Oral ivermectin (200 µg/kg) administered as a single dose, with a repeat dose after 7–10 days, has demonstrated high efficacy. Alternatively, a topical pyrethrin‑based lotion applied to dry hair for 10 minutes, followed by a thorough rinse, can be used under medical supervision. Both options require a prescription and may have contraindications; consult a healthcare professional before use.
Third, implement environmental controls. Wash all bedding, clothing, and personal items worn within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat. Seal non‑washable items in a plastic bag for two weeks, the typical survival period of the insect off the host. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately after use.
Fourth, consider adjunctive oil treatments for individuals who cannot tolerate chemicals. Apply 100 % pure tea‑tree oil, neem oil, or mineral oil to the scalp, covering the hair from root to tip. Leave the oil on for at least eight hours, then comb out nits. This method suffocates the insects and facilitates their removal, though it does not replace the need for prescription therapy in resistant cases.
Finally, educate all household members about avoidance practices: avoid sharing combs, hats, or hair accessories; discourage head‑to‑head contact during play; and perform regular visual inspections of hair, especially after school or camp attendance.
By integrating repeated wet combing, medically approved pharmacologic agents, rigorous cleaning of personal and household items, and, when appropriate, oil‑based suffocation techniques, the infestation can be eliminated even when standard shampoos fail.