What should I do if a child's lice treatment at home fails? - briefly
If over‑the‑counter remedies do not eliminate the infestation, schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional for prescription‑strength treatment and follow‑up. Simultaneously, wash all bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water and vacuum the environment to prevent re‑infestation.
What should I do if a child's lice treatment at home fails? - in detail
When a child’s lice removal attempts at home do not eliminate the infestation, first verify the presence of live insects. Examine the scalp under bright light, using a fine-toothed comb on damp hair; live nits or adult lice confirm that the problem persists.
Next, review the method applied. Ensure the product’s instructions were followed precisely: correct dosage, adequate exposure time, and thorough combing after treatment. If the preparation was applied incorrectly, repeat the procedure with strict adherence to the label.
If the initial medication fails, consider an alternative over‑the‑counter option. Permethrin 1 % or pyrethrin‑based shampoos are standard; for resistant cases, a 0.5 % malathion lotion may be effective. Apply the new product exactly as directed, and repeat the combing process at least 7–10 days later to capture newly hatched nits.
Parallel environmental control is essential. Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and tumble‑dry on high heat. Seal non‑washable items in sealed plastic bags for two weeks. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
If repeated home measures do not achieve clearance, seek professional assistance. A pediatrician can prescribe stronger topical agents such as benzyl alcohol or ivermectin lotion. Dermatologists or licensed lice‑removal specialists can perform meticulous manual extraction, reducing the need for chemicals.
Finally, conduct a follow‑up inspection one week after the last treatment. Use a fine comb daily for three days, then weekly for two weeks, to detect any remaining nits. Maintain the cleaning regimen throughout this period to prevent re‑infestation.