What should you do if lice keep appearing? - briefly
Use an approved lice treatment and repeat it after a week, washing all bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water. If the problem persists, consult a healthcare professional for alternative options.
What should you do if lice keep appearing? - in detail
Recurring head‑lice infestations require a systematic approach that addresses both the insects on the scalp and the surrounding environment.
First, verify the presence of live lice and viable nits. Use a fine‑toothed comb on wet hair, checking the base of the neck and behind the ears. If any live insects are seen, the infestation is active.
Next, select an appropriate treatment. Options include:
- Over‑the‑counter pediculicides containing permethrin or pyrethrin; follow the label for application time and repeat the dose after 7–10 days.
- Prescription preparations such as ivermectin or malathion for resistant strains; obtain these through a health‑care provider.
- Manual removal with a nit‑comb; perform daily sessions for at least two weeks, ensuring each pass removes both lice and eggs.
Treat the entire household simultaneously to limit cross‑contamination. Apply the chosen product to all affected individuals, even those without visible signs, because nits can hatch within a few days.
Environmental control is essential. Execute the following steps:
- Wash all bedding, hats, scarves, and clothing worn in the past 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in sealed plastic bags for two weeks to starve any surviving lice.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard vacuum bags or clean canisters immediately.
- Avoid sharing combs, brushes, hair accessories, or headgear until the infestation is cleared.
Monitor the situation closely. Conduct visual inspections and comb checks every 2–3 days for three weeks after treatment. If live lice reappear, repeat the treatment cycle according to the product’s instructions, typically a second dose after 7–10 days.
Seek professional assistance when:
- Two full treatment cycles fail to eliminate the problem.
- The infestation persists despite correct use of prescription medication.
- Adverse reactions such as severe skin irritation develop.
By combining accurate diagnosis, effective pharmacologic or mechanical removal, thorough decontamination of personal items, and vigilant follow‑up, repeated head‑lice outbreaks can be stopped permanently.