What should you do if you can't remove lice? - briefly
Consult a healthcare professional for prescription‑strength treatment and follow their cleaning protocol, including washing clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water and thoroughly vacuuming the environment. If medication is prescribed, apply it exactly as directed to eliminate any remaining nits.
What should you do if you can't remove lice? - in detail
When lice remain after initial treatment, follow a systematic escalation plan.
First, verify that the chosen method was applied correctly. Use a fine‑toothed nit comb on wet, conditioned hair, starting at the scalp and moving toward the ends. Comb each section at least three times, rinsing the comb after each pass. Discard any lice or nits found.
If repeated combing does not eradicate the infestation, switch to a medicated product. Over‑the‑counter shampoos or lotions containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin are standard first‑line options. Apply according to the label, leave the product on for the recommended duration, then rinse thoroughly. A second application 7–10 days later targets hatching nits that survived the initial dose.
Should resistance or allergy render OTC agents ineffective, obtain a prescription from a healthcare professional. Options include 0.5 % malathion, 0.05 % benzyl alcohol lotion, or oral ivermectin. These treatments require precise dosing and may have contraindications, so follow medical guidance exactly.
In parallel with chemical measures, eliminate environmental reservoirs:
- Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items (e.g., hats, stuffed toys) in sealed plastic bags for at least two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and vehicle seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
- Avoid sharing personal items such as combs, brushes, hats, and headphones.
Monitor the situation daily for three weeks. Inspect the scalp each morning, using a nit comb to detect any remaining insects. If live lice are observed after the second prescription cycle, consult a dermatologist or infectious‑disease specialist for alternative regimens or combination therapy.
Document each treatment step, including dates, product names, and observed outcomes. This record assists healthcare providers in tailoring subsequent interventions and ensures accountability throughout the eradication process.