I've never had a snake lose scales when using oil to treat mites. The use of oil is in itself messy, but after you finish the treatment, you use a soapy bath to rinse the snake. I used to use this treatment for a few years long before Provent A Mite was available in my area. I then used Provent A Mite until a friend told me he lost a few snakes when using Provent A Mite. I've known Rick for years and i know he's a great breeder and when he tells me something, I believe him. I personally saw a few snakes that he bought and died hours after being treated with Provent A Mite.
Jim Smith