What to do if lice won't come out? - briefly
Use a medicated lice treatment (shampoo or lotion) and repeat it after 7‑10 days while combing wet hair with a fine-toothed lice comb to remove remaining nits. Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water or seal them for two weeks to eliminate any surviving parasites.
What to do if lice won't come out? - in detail
Persistent head‑lice infestations require a systematic approach. First, confirm the presence of live lice and viable nits by examining the scalp with a fine‑toothed comb under bright light. If only empty shells remain, treatment may already be effective.
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Re‑treatment – Apply a second dose of a proven pediculicide (e.g., 1% permethrin or 0.5% malathion) according to the product’s schedule, typically 7–10 days after the initial application. This timing targets lice that hatched from eggs missed during the first round.
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Manual removal – Use a metal or fine‑plastic nit comb on damp hair. Comb from scalp to ends, wiping the comb after each pass. Repeat the process daily for at least one week, ensuring all nits are extracted.
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Alternative agents – If resistance to standard chemicals is suspected, consider dimethicone‑based lotions, benzyl alcohol 5% spray, or ivermectin oral tablets prescribed by a physician. These options act by suffocating or immobilizing the parasites.
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Environmental control – Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks. Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture to remove stray eggs.
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Preventive measures – Advise all household members to avoid sharing combs, hats, or pillows. Encourage regular head checks for at least three weeks after treatment completion.
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Medical follow‑up – If live insects persist after two full treatment cycles, schedule a consultation. A healthcare professional may prescribe stronger topical agents or oral medication and assess for secondary skin infection.
By combining repeat chemical treatment, diligent nit removal, thorough cleaning of personal items, and professional oversight, most stubborn infestations can be eradicated. Continuous monitoring for several weeks ensures that any surviving lice are detected and eliminated promptly.