What to do if you can't get rid of lice? - briefly
Consult a healthcare professional for prescription‑strength treatment and follow a thorough cleaning protocol for hair, bedding, and personal items; repeat the treatment as directed and monitor for reinfestation.
What to do if you can't get rid of lice? - in detail
Persistent lice require a systematic approach. First, verify the presence of live insects and viable eggs by examining the scalp with a fine-toothed comb under bright light. If any are found, begin a second round of treatment within seven days, using a product that contains either permethrin 1% or pyrethrin, applied exactly as directed. Do not exceed the recommended exposure time; excessive contact can cause irritation without improving efficacy.
If the infestation continues after two applications, switch to a prescription medication such as malathion 0.5% or ivermectin lotion. These agents act on resistant lice strains and are applied once, then repeated after nine days to target newly hatched nits. Follow the specific instructions on dosage, skin preparation, and post‑treatment washing.
Simultaneously, remove all nits manually. Use a metal nit comb, moving from the scalp outward in short sections. Perform this daily for at least ten days, cleaning the comb with hot, soapy water after each pass. This mechanical step eliminates eggs that chemicals may miss.
Environmental control is essential. Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in water hotter than 130 °F (54 °C) and dry on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks, depriving lice of a host. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag afterward.
If these measures fail, consult a healthcare professional. A clinician can prescribe oral ivermectin or other systemic treatments, assess for possible secondary skin infections, and provide guidance on preventing re‑infestation. In some cases, a dermatologist may recommend a combination therapy tailored to the specific resistance pattern of the lice population.
Maintain vigilance after treatment. Inspect the scalp twice weekly for four weeks. Early detection of any remaining insects allows prompt re‑application of therapy, preventing a full resurgence.