getting rid of scabies for good

I'm a 50 something woman, live alone, got scabies from my parents (different household) who got it from their worker etc etc.  We have been trying to do everything right--change linens often, dry towels on hot every daily shower, never wear the same clothes twice, vacuum often.  We've done the permethrin treatment 3 times in 3 months and they always come back.  If I feel and itch or pinch I immediately scrub the area with nail brush and flood with alcohol.  Now they're in my scalp!  Do scabies drown, if so, how long does it take?  How many days does it take for the little buggers to die in clothing,?  Are we cursed for life?  I really don't want to use more poison, especially if it doesn't work.  HELP!!

Any help that actually works and I'll be forever grateful,    Itchy

[Jasmina Jankicevic, MD, MSc, CCRP]

Welcome to the Dermatology Expert Forum!

Topical treatment option in such resistant cases is simultaneous 7 day treatment of all family and affected community members with 5-15% sulphur praecipitatum. It is safe even for children. Before and after 7 days of treatment thorough shower is required as well as changing linens and clothes and washing it all at high temperatures. However, during therapy, topical preparation should be applied on skin daily (not only affected areas but whole body), no washing (except hands and body creases when necessary, but with immediate reapplying of sulphur preparation).

Wishing You Optimal Health,
Dr. Jasmina Jankicevic