What should be done if lice are difficult to remove? - briefly
Apply a medicated lice treatment (e.g., permethrin or a prescription option) and follow the product’s full repeat‑application schedule, using a fine‑toothed comb to extract any remaining nits after each dose. Simultaneously disinfect bedding, clothing, and personal items, and consult a healthcare professional if infestations persist.
What should be done if lice are difficult to remove? - in detail
When an infestation resists standard over‑the‑counter treatments, a systematic approach is required. Begin by confirming the presence of live lice and viable nits; adult insects move quickly, while nits are firmly attached to the hair shaft near the scalp. Misidentifying debris as eggs often leads to premature conclusions about treatment success.
Step‑by‑step protocol
- Prescription‑strength medication – Seek a clinician’s prescription for a topical agent such as malathion 0.5 % or ivermectin lotion. These products penetrate the exoskeleton and remain effective against resistant strains.
- Precise application – Follow label directions exactly: apply to dry hair, saturate scalp and shafts, leave the product on for the specified duration, then rinse thoroughly. Do not dilute or combine with other shampoos unless instructed.
- Mechanical removal – After the chemical exposure, use a fine‑toothed nit comb on damp, conditioned hair. Start at the scalp, pulling the comb through each section from root to tip. Clean the comb after every pass to avoid re‑depositing eggs.
- Repeat treatment – Perform a second round 7–10 days after the first, targeting newly hatched nits that survived the initial cycle. Consistency eliminates the life cycle before adults emerge.
- Environmental decontamination – Wash bedding, hats, scarves, and clothing in hot water (≥ 130 °F/54 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks, the typical survival period for lice off the host.
- Avoid cross‑contamination – Instruct all household members to avoid head‑to‑head contact and sharing of personal items until the infestation is cleared. Regularly inspect family members for signs of recurrence.
- Professional assistance – If lice persist after two full treatment cycles, consult a dermatologist or licensed lice‑removal service. They can provide oral ivermectin or specialized equipment such as a louse‑removing vacuum.
Monitoring continues for at least three weeks post‑treatment. Document any surviving insects and re‑apply the prescribed regimen if necessary. Early detection of recurrence prevents a prolonged outbreak.