Susan
Hi. I sure empathize with you. 6 years ago, my daughter had a very extensive case of lice. My son also had it but not to the same degree. Like you, I tried Nix, Rid, Clear etc to no avail (my daughter's hair is extremely thick and quite long). Shortly after, I read an article in the "Ladies' Home Journal" (6/94 issue) about lice and the dangers of Lindane (a prescription lice treatment). At the end of the story was a toll free # for the National Pediculosis Assn 1-800-446-4672. I called and they were able to give me quite a bit of advice. Though very tedious, I combed through my daughter's hair every day (dipping the nit comb each time in a bowl of boiling hot water to kill any lice/nits picked up in her hair). I also started blow-drying her hair as heat also kills lice. I also soaked all hairbrushes, combs and hair accessories in boiling hot water. Wash all other items in hot water too or put in dryer for at least 20 minutes on high heat. Vacuuming also helps- and use a new vacuum cleaner bag! My son was too tender-headed for repeated combing so, at his request, I shaved his head- it was summer and he didn't mind. I consider myself a very clean person & was embarassed to have this happen to my children but I was told this can happen to anyone & has nothing to do with cleanliness. Good luck!