What should you know about permanent solution for lice?

Head lice live on the scalp and feed on small amounts of blood. Itching may take time to appear, and nits attached to hair are not always active eggs. Finding a live crawling louse is more useful for confirming current infestation than seeing flakes or old empty shells. Lice spread mainly through close head-to-head contact; they do not jump or fly.

Treatment failure can result from applying a product incorrectly, missing a follow-up application when its instructions require one, overlooking a close contact, or confusing old nits with live lice.

Check household members and close contacts, treating only people with live lice or a clinician's recommendation. Follow the product label exactly, including application time and repeat instructions. Use a fine-toothed detection comb on wet, conditioned hair, working from the scalp to the ends and wiping the comb after each pass. Repeat wet combing regularly until no live lice are found.

Do not layer different lice products, use pesticides around the home, or share combs, hats, pillows, or hair accessories. Wash recently used bedding and clothing according to their care instructions; extensive house spraying is unnecessary.

Ask a pharmacist or clinician for help if live lice remain after correctly following treatment, the scalp is broken or infected, the person is very young, or pregnancy or a skin condition affects product choice. Seek prompt care for spreading redness, pus, fever, or painful swollen glands.

How can I confirm that lice are still alive? Which treatment is suitable for this age and scalp? When should I repeat it, and how should I check close contacts?