If you can’t get rid of lice, what should you do? - briefly
Seek prescription‑strength medication from a medical professional and combine it with meticulous nit‑comb treatment, while washing all bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water to eliminate remaining eggs. If the infestation persists, repeat the process and consider a professional lice‑removal service.
If you can’t get rid of lice, what should you do? - in detail
Persistent head‑lice infestations require a systematic approach. First, verify that live insects or viable eggs are present; visual inspection with a fine‑tooth comb under good lighting confirms the problem. If lice remain after an over‑the‑counter product, repeat the treatment according to the label’s recommended interval—usually 7–10 days—to target newly hatched nymphs that survived the initial dose.
Next, consider a prescription medication. Options include a 1 % permethrin lotion, a 0.5 % malathion shampoo, or oral ivermectin, each requiring a physician’s approval. Follow the dosing schedule precisely; some regimens call for a second application after 9 days.
Mechanical removal complements chemical treatment. Perform wet combing twice daily for at least one week, using a fine‑tooth lice comb on damp hair. After each session, wipe the comb on a white paper towel to inspect for live lice and discard any captured insects.
Environmental decontamination reduces re‑infestation risk. Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F/54 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks or placed in a freezer at –4 °F (–20 °C) for 24 hours. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
If the problem persists despite these measures, seek professional evaluation. A dermatologist or pediatrician can assess for resistance to common agents, prescribe stronger topical or oral therapies, and advise on alternative strategies such as benzyl alcohol lotion or spinosad. In cases of widespread resistance, a combination of chemical and mechanical methods may be necessary.
Finally, educate all household members and close contacts about detection and treatment protocols. Promptly treat anyone found to be infested, and enforce the same cleaning standards to prevent a cycle of recurrence.