What should you do if you can't get rid of lice? - briefly
Consult a healthcare professional for prescription‑strength pediculicide and follow the recommended repeat‑application schedule, while washing all bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water or sealing them for two weeks. If the problem continues, seek a professional lice‑removal service or alternative treatments under medical supervision.
What should you do if you can't get rid of lice? - in detail
If head‑lice eggs remain after an initial treatment, verify the presence of live insects by examining the scalp under bright light and using a fine‑toothed nit comb. Remove any visible nits with the comb, working from the crown outward, and discard the combed material.
Apply a second‑generation pediculicide that contains either dimethicone, ivermectin, or spinosad, following the manufacturer’s instructions precisely. Do not exceed the recommended dosage or exposure time, as overuse can increase resistance. After the first application, wait the period specified—usually seven to ten days—before repeating the treatment to target newly hatched lice that survived the initial dose.
Conduct a thorough combing session every 2–3 days for two weeks. Use a fine‑toothed nit comb on wet, conditioned hair, starting at the scalp and moving toward the ends. Clean the comb after each pass with hot, soapy water to prevent re‑infestation.
Wash all personal items that have contacted the head: pillowcases, hats, hairbrushes, and scarves. Use hot water (at least 130 °F/54 °C) and a high‑heat dryer cycle, or seal items in a plastic bag for two weeks if laundering is not feasible. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats to remove fallen nits.
Notify schools, daycare centers, or other group settings about the outbreak. Request that they implement a coordinated treatment protocol, as untreated contacts can reintroduce lice.
If over‑the‑counter products fail after two complete cycles, consult a healthcare professional. Prescription options such as oral ivermectin or a topical formulation containing malathion may be recommended. The clinician can also assess for secondary skin infection and provide appropriate antibiotics if needed.
Maintain regular scalp inspections for at least one month after the final treatment. Document any recurrence promptly and repeat the treatment protocol without delay to prevent a prolonged infestation.