How can you identify pubic lice on yourself?

Understanding Pubic Lice

What Are Pubic Lice?

Life Cycle of Pubic Lice

Pubic lice (Pthirus pubis) undergo a rapid development cycle that directly influences detection on the body. The cycle consists of three distinct phases: egg, nymph, and adult. Understanding each phase clarifies where visual signs appear and how long they persist.

Egg (nit): Oval, 0.8 mm long, firmly attached to hair shafts near the base of the pubic hairs. Eggs hatch in 6–10 days, leaving a translucent, oval shell that remains attached after hatching.
Nymph: Immature lice pass through three molts over 9–12 days. Nymphs resemble adults but are smaller (1–2 mm) and lighter in color. During this period, movement becomes noticeable as the insects crawl along the hair shaft.
Adult: Fully grown lice measure 1.5–2 mm, have a crab‑like appearance, and feed on blood several times a day. Females lay 2–3 eggs per day, continuing the cycle. Adults survive up to 30 days on a host; off‑host survival does not exceed 48 hours.

The entire life span averages 30–40 days. Identification relies on locating nits at the hair base, observing mobile nymphs or adults, and noting associated itching caused by bites. Persistent itching without a clear rash should prompt inspection of the pubic region, perianal area, and, in some cases, chest or armpit hair where lice may migrate.

«Effective detection depends on recognizing the characteristic egg attachment and the rapid progression to mobile stages within two weeks.»

Common Names and Misconceptions

Recognizing the insect that infests the pubic region begins with awareness of its terminology. The parasite is frequently referred to by several names, each appearing in medical literature and popular discourse.

«crabs» – colloquial label derived from the lice’s crab‑like appearance.
«pubic lice» – straightforward descriptor used in clinical settings.
«pediculus pubis» – scientific binomial indicating the species.
«phthiriasis» – medical term denoting infestation by this specific lice.

Misconceptions often hinder accurate self‑assessment. Common false beliefs include:

The notion that infestation occurs exclusively through sexual contact; transmission can also result from shared bedding, towels, or clothing.
The assumption that symptoms always involve intense itching; mild irritation or visible nits may be the only indicators.
The idea that lice disappear without treatment; they persist unless eradicated with appropriate pediculicides or thorough cleansing.
The belief that visible adult lice are required for diagnosis; nits attached to hair shafts provide reliable evidence even when adults are absent.

Understanding precise nomenclature and dispelling myths enhances the ability to identify the parasite during personal examination.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Itching and Discomfort

Intensity and Timing of Itch

Itch arising from a pediculosis infestation often begins within 48–72 hours after the insects attach to the hair shafts. The sensation starts as a faint irritation and can progress to a pronounced pruritus that disrupts sleep. Nighttime exacerbation is common because the parasites become more active when the host is at rest.

The intensity of the itch follows a predictable course. Early stages produce occasional, localized tingling; as the lice mature and lay eggs, the pruritus intensifies, becoming persistent and sharply focused on the pubic region, perianal area, and occasionally the lower abdomen or inner thighs. The discomfort may fluctuate throughout the day, but a marked increase after bathing or sweating is typical.

Key characteristics of itch associated with this condition include:

Onset ≈ 2–3 days after exposure.
Initial mild, intermittent sensation evolving into constant, severe pruritus.
Predominant nocturnal worsening.
Localization to hair‑bearing skin of the genital and adjacent areas.

Recognition of this pattern, combined with visual inspection for viable lice or nits, supports accurate self‑assessment of a pubic‑lice infestation.

Location of Itching

Itching concentrated in the genital region serves as a primary clue when assessing for infestation by pubic lice. The sensation often appears as a persistent, localized pruritus that intensifies after prolonged sitting or heat exposure.

Typical sites of discomfort include:

Pubic hair surrounding the mons pubis and labia or scrotum
Perianal hair and surrounding skin
Inner thighs where hair may be present
Under the abdomen, particularly along the bikini line

In some cases, secondary irritation may spread to adjacent areas, such as the lower abdomen or upper buttocks, due to scratching. Distinguishing lice‑related itch from other dermatological conditions relies on the presence of these characteristic locations combined with visual evidence of nits or adult insects attached to hair shafts. Prompt examination of the specified zones increases the likelihood of accurate self‑diagnosis.

Visual Signs on Skin

Small Red Bumps or Spots

Small red bumps or spots on the genital area often indicate an early stage of infestation by pubic lice. The lesions appear as pinpoint, erythematous papules caused by the bite of the insect. Typically, the bumps are clustered around the base of hair shafts where the lice attach to feed.

Key characteristics of these lesions include:

Size ranging from 1 to 3 mm in diameter.
Uniform redness without necrotic centers.
Accompanying mild itching, especially after prolonged contact with the affected region.
Presence of tiny, dark specks (fecal matter) near the base of each bump.

Differentiation from other dermatological conditions relies on additional signs. Pubic lice infestation also produces visible nits adhered to hair shafts, often situated within 1 mm of the skin surface. The combination of nits and small red papules distinguishes the condition from fungal infections, which usually present with scaling and diffuse redness, or allergic reactions, which lack the characteristic attached eggs.

When examining oneself, use a magnifying device and a fine-toothed comb to separate hairs. Observe the following steps:

Pull the hair away from the skin to expose the shaft.
Scan for translucent or brownish oval structures (nits) attached at an angle.
Note any adjacent erythematous papules corresponding to bite sites.
Record the distribution pattern; concentrated clusters near the pubic hair line suggest lice activity.

Early detection through recognition of small red bumps enables prompt treatment, reducing the risk of secondary bacterial infection and transmission to partners. Medical products containing permethrin or pyrethrins are effective when applied according to manufacturer instructions. Follow‑up inspection after treatment should confirm the disappearance of both nits and erythematous spots.

Blue Spots («Maculae caeruleae»)

Blue spots («Maculae caeruleae») are small, non‑painful, bluish‑gray macules that may appear on the genital region when a pubic louse bite ruptures a superficial capillary. The discoloration results from pooled blood beneath the epidermis and typically persists for several days before fading.

During self‑examination for possible pubic louse infestation, the presence of blue spots provides an additional visual cue. They differ from other skin changes in several respects:

Color: distinct bluish‑gray rather than red or brown.
Size: usually 1–3 mm in diameter.
Distribution: concentrated around hair shafts where lice attach and feed.
Evolution: appear within 24–48 hours after a bite and fade without scarring.

Recognition of blue spots helps distinguish a true louse bite from other conditions such as fungal infections, allergic dermatitis, or friction‑induced erythema, which lack the characteristic bluish hue and localized pattern.

When evaluating oneself for pubic lice, combine observation of blue spots with other signs—live insects, nits attached to hair shafts, and intense pruritus—to increase diagnostic confidence. Absence of blue spots does not exclude infestation, but their presence strengthens the clinical suspicion.

Visible Lice and Nits

Characteristics of Adult Lice

Adult pubic lice (Pthirus pubis) are small, laterally flattened insects measuring approximately 1.5–2 mm in length. Their bodies are broader than head lice, giving a crab‑like appearance, and they possess six legs, each ending in clawed tarsi that grasp coarse hair shafts. The dorsal surface is covered with fine, translucent scales that give a gray‑brown hue; coloration may appear darker after feeding.

Key identifying features of mature lice include:

Size: 1.5–2 mm, visible to the naked eye as tiny moving specks.
Shape: crab‑like, with a broad, flattened body and a short, rounded abdomen.
Legs: six, equipped with strong claws adapted for grasping pubic hair.
Color: gray‑brown to dark brown, becoming more opaque after a blood meal.
Mobility: rapid, erratic movement along hair shafts, often near the base of the hair follicle.
Nits: oval, firmly attached to hair shafts within 1 mm of the scalp, resembling tiny white or tan beads; they are resistant to removal by brushing alone.

These characteristics enable self‑examination for infestation. Visual inspection of the genital region and surrounding coarse hair, combined with careful observation of the described size, shape, and movement patterns, provides reliable evidence of adult pubic lice presence.

Identifying Nits (Eggs)

Examine the pubic region with a magnifying lens or a bright handheld light. Nits appear as tiny, oval structures firmly attached to the hair shaft. Their size ranges from 0.6 mm to 1 mm, making them visible as white or yellowish specks. Distinguish nits from hair debris by noting the following characteristics:

Fixed position: Nits remain anchored at a 45‑degree angle to the hair, not sliding down when the hair is brushed.
Color change: Fresh nits are white; older ones darken to brown or gray.
Shape: Smooth, elongated oval rather than irregular flakes.

Inspect the base of each hair strand, especially near the shaft’s origin. Use a fine‑toothed comb designed for lice removal to separate hairs and reveal concealed nits. After combing, examine the comb’s teeth for dislodged eggs. If nits are present, they will cling to the comb and not fall off easily.

Confirm identification by checking for hatching signs. Emerging lice appear as small, mobile insects within 5‑7 days after the nits are laid. Absence of movement indicates the structures are still eggs. Proper detection relies on systematic visual inspection, appropriate lighting, and the use of a specialized comb.

Location of Nits on Hair Shafts

Nits, the eggs of pubic lice, attach firmly to hair shafts. The attachment point is typically within 1–2 mm of the skin surface, where the hair emerges from the follicle. This proximity creates a visible band of tiny, oval, white‑to‑yellowish structures encircling the hair. Nits are immobile; they do not move along the shaft, which distinguishes them from debris or dandruff.

Key locations to inspect during self‑examination:

Base of each hair strand, especially in the pubic region, groin, and perianal area.
Along the outer edge of the hair cluster, where the hair density is lower and nits are more exposed.
Near the inner thigh and abdominal crease, where hairs may be sparse but still host nits.

Characteristics of nits aid identification:

Size: approximately 0.8 mm in length, comparable to a pinhead.
Shape: oval, with a smooth, glossy surface.
Color: initially white or yellow, darkening to brown as the embryo develops.
Firm attachment: a gentle tug on the hair causes the nit to remain attached, unlike loose scales that detach easily.

Detecting nits at the described locations confirms the presence of pubic lice and guides appropriate treatment.

Self-Examination Techniques

Preparing for Examination

Adequate Lighting

Adequate lighting is essential for a reliable visual inspection of the genital region. Insufficient illumination masks the small, translucent bodies of lice and their eggs, increasing the risk of missed diagnosis.

Key lighting characteristics:

Bright intensity of at least 1,000 lux, achieved with a handheld LED lamp or a well‑lit bathroom mirror.
Diffused light to eliminate harsh shadows; a ring light or a lamp with a frosted cover provides even coverage.
Neutral color temperature (5,000–6,500 K) that renders true colors, allowing differentiation between hair and nits.
Adjustable focus or magnification, such as a magnifying glass mounted on the light source, to enlarge the area of interest.

When these conditions are met, the contrast between the hair shaft and the parasite becomes pronounced. The adult parasite appears as a brown‑gray, crab‑shaped organism measuring 1–2 mm, while nits are oval, cemented to the hair shaft near the base. Clear illumination reveals the characteristic “walking” motion of live lice and the firm attachment of nits, facilitating prompt identification and treatment.

Using a Magnifying Glass

A magnifying glass provides the resolution needed to distinguish pubic lice from surrounding skin and hair. The instrument enlarges the visual field, allowing clear observation of the parasite’s size, shape, and movement.

When performing a self‑examination, follow these steps:

Choose a well‑lit area; natural daylight or a bright lamp reduces shadows.
Hold the magnifying glass about two inches from the affected region; maintain a steady hand to avoid blur.
Scan the hair shafts from the base outward, focusing on the pubic area, inner thighs, and perineum.
Pause briefly at each segment to allow the eye to adjust to the magnified view.

Key visual indicators include:

Adult lice: gray‑brown, crab‑shaped bodies measuring 1–2 mm; often seen clinging to hair shafts near the skin.
Nymphs: smaller, translucent versions of adults, typically less than 1 mm.
Nits (eggs): oval, white or yellowish shells firmly attached to the side of a hair shaft; they do not detach easily.

Additional recommendations:

Use a fine‑toothed comb in conjunction with the magnifying glass to separate hair and expose hidden organisms.
Clean the magnifying lens with a lint‑free cloth after each use to prevent contamination.
If lice or nits are confirmed, seek appropriate treatment promptly.

Areas to Inspect

Pubic Hair

Pubic hair grows in the genital region, typically coarse and curl‑shaped, providing a protective barrier for the skin. The hair density varies among individuals, but the presence of visible strands is normal and forms the substrate where parasites may attach.

When an infestation occurs, the following indicators appear directly on the hair and surrounding skin:

Small, translucent eggs (nits) cemented to the base of each hair shaft
Live adult parasites measuring 1–2 mm, resembling tiny grayish‑brown insects
Persistent, localized itching caused by the bite of the parasite
Red, inflamed papules or tiny bumps where the insects feed

A thorough self‑inspection involves using a well‑lit area, a handheld mirror, and, if available, a magnifying lens. Separate the hair strands gently and examine the base for attached nits or moving insects. The skin should also be inspected for the described lesions.

If any of the signs are observed, professional evaluation is recommended. Medical treatment typically includes topical insecticides prescribed by a healthcare provider, along with instructions for laundering clothing and bedding to prevent re‑infestation.

Thighs and Abdomen

Pubic lice (Pthirus pubis) can be detected on the thighs and abdomen through careful visual examination and awareness of characteristic signs. The insects are small, flattened, and crab‑like, measuring 1–2 mm in length. Their bodies are gray‑brown, while their legs are darker. When attached to hair shafts, they appear as tiny, moving specks near the base of the hair.

Typical indicators include:

Live insects moving quickly across the skin surface;
Dark, oval eggs (nits) firmly attached to the shaft of coarse hair, positioned close to the skin;
Small, red or blue‑colored bite marks caused by the lice’s feeding activity;
Itching or a burning sensation that intensifies after bathing or exposure to heat.

Inspection should be performed in a well‑lit area, preferably using a magnifying lens. Part the hair on the thighs and abdomen, pulling it away from the skin to expose the base. Scan for live lice and nits within a few millimeters of the scalp. If any are found, note their location and quantity for appropriate treatment planning.

Eyelashes and Eyebrows (Less Common)

Pubic lice can infest the eyelashes and eyebrows, presenting a diagnostic challenge because these areas are examined less frequently than the genital region. Visual inspection reveals tiny, crab‑shaped insects measuring 1–2 mm, often attached near the base of hairs. Live lice appear gray‑brown, while their nits (eggs) are firm, oval, and firmly glued to the shaft, typically positioned within 1 mm of the hair root. Dark, moving specks may be observed when the eye or brow is illuminated from an angle.

Tactile clues include itching that intensifies after bathing or sweating, and a sensation of crawling or movement along the lashes or brow hairs. The itch is caused by the lice’s saliva and the mechanical irritation of nits.

Practical steps for self‑assessment:

Use a magnifying lens (10×) and a bright light source to scan each lash and brow hair from the base to the tip.
Gently pull a small number of hairs to expose the shaft; examine for attached insects or cemented eggs.
Look for clusters of nits that form a linear pattern along the hair shaft.
Record any observed organisms or eggs; capture a photo for medical consultation if uncertainty remains.

If lice or nits are confirmed, seek professional treatment promptly. Recommended options include prescription topical agents approved for ocular use, or manual removal with fine tweezers under sterile conditions. Follow‑up examination after treatment ensures eradication and prevents reinfestation.

What to Look For During Examination

Live Lice Movement

Identifying an infestation depends on recognizing the distinctive activity of live lice. When a person examines the affected area, the presence of tiny, rapidly moving insects distinguishes a current infestation from dead specimens or debris.

Live pubic lice exhibit the following movement characteristics:

Erratic, short bursts of crawling across hair shafts.
Quick, jerky hops when disturbed, often referred to as “jumping” behavior.
Persistent navigation toward the warmth of the skin, resulting in frequent repositioning.
Visible attachment of the insect’s clawed legs to the hair shaft, causing a subtle pulling motion.

Observation techniques that exploit these behaviors include:

Using a bright, magnifying light to illuminate the region; live lice become more active under increased illumination.
Gently brushing the hair with a fine-toothed comb; live insects may detach and move rapidly away from the comb.
Applying a small amount of warm water; the temperature change stimulates movement, revealing active lice.

Detecting the described motion patterns provides reliable confirmation of an ongoing infestation without reliance on laboratory analysis.

Presence of Nits

The presence of nits is a reliable indicator when examining the pubic region for infestation. Nits are the eggs of the parasite and adhere firmly to hair shafts. They appear as tiny, oval, whitish‑gray structures, usually 0.8 mm in length, and remain attached until hatching.

Key characteristics of nits:

Fixed to the base of each hair, not easily removed by combing.
Translucent when newly laid; become more opaque as the embryo develops.
Positioned close to the skin surface, often within a few millimeters of the root.
Visible under magnification or strong illumination; naked eye may detect larger, mature nits.

Differentiation from other debris:

Dandruff or skin flakes are loose, can be brushed away, and lack attachment to hair.
Sebaceous secretions are oily, do not exhibit the oval shape characteristic of nits.
Fungal spores do not attach firmly to individual hair shafts.

When nits are observed, confirm the diagnosis by searching for live adult or nymphal parasites in the surrounding area. Absence of movement does not exclude infestation; the presence of viable nits alone warrants treatment.

Skin Irritations

Pubic lice infestations commonly manifest as localized skin irritations. The irritation results from the insect’s saliva and mechanical movement, producing a distinctive pattern of symptoms.

Typical signs include:

Intense pruritus concentrated in the pubic region, often extending to adjacent thighs or abdomen.
Red, inflamed papules or small bumps surrounding hair follicles.
Visible translucent or brownish eggs (nits) attached firmly to the base of hairs.
Small, mobile insects measuring 1–2 mm, occasionally observed moving among the hairs.

Self‑examination should begin with a thorough visual inspection in a well‑lit environment. Using a fine‑toothed comb or disposable lice removal tool, gently separate hair strands to reveal nits and adult lice. A magnifying glass can improve detection of the tiny, elongated bodies.

If any of the listed signs are present, prompt treatment with an approved topical pediculicide is recommended. Follow‑up inspection after 7–10 days confirms eradication, as newly hatched lice become visible once the initial treatment has cleared adult insects.

Differentiating from Other Conditions

Scabies

Scabies is a skin infestation caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei. Unlike pubic lice, which reside on hair shafts and produce visible nits, scabies mites burrow into the epidermis and create characteristic lesions.

Key clinical features include:

Intense pruritus that worsens at night
Thin, wavy burrows 2–10 mm in length, often visible as gray‑white lines
Papules or vesicles surrounding burrows, frequently located on wrists, interdigital spaces, elbows, waist, and genital area

Self‑assessment steps:

Wash hands thoroughly, then dry them.
Examine skin under a magnifying lens or dermatoscope.
Identify linear or serpentine tracks (burrows) and note associated erythema or pustules.
Scrape a suspected burrow onto a glass slide, add mineral oil, and view under a microscope for mites, eggs, or fecal pellets.

Absence of live insects or attached nits, combined with the presence of burrows and nocturnal itching, points toward scabies rather than a lice infestation. Prompt recognition enables appropriate topical or oral acaricide therapy.

Fungal Infections

Fungal infections can mimic symptoms associated with genital ectoparasites, making accurate visual assessment essential.

Typical signs of «pubic lice» include tiny, grayish insects moving among coarse hair, and oval, white‑to‑cream nits firmly attached to hair shafts near the skin surface. Intense, localized itching often intensifies after bathing.

Common genital fungal conditions, such as candidiasis or tinea cruris, present as erythematous, macerated patches with fine scaling or satellite lesions. The affected area may exhibit mild to moderate pruritus, but no visible insects or attached eggs.

Key distinguishing characteristics:

Presence of live insects or nits → indicates lice infestation.
Absence of insects, presence of well‑defined, scaly borders → suggests fungal etiology.
Distribution pattern: lice concentrate on hair‑bearing regions; fungal rash may extend to adjacent skin folds.
Response to antifungal cream: rapid improvement for fungal infection; no effect on lice.

Diagnostic approach:

Conduct a thorough visual inspection using a magnifying lens under adequate illumination.
Separate hair strands to search for nits attached close to the scalp.
Perform skin scraping for microscopy if fungal elements are suspected.
Consider laboratory confirmation through culture or PCR when diagnosis remains uncertain.

Accurate differentiation between ectoparasitic and fungal causes directs appropriate treatment and prevents unnecessary medication.

Allergic Reactions

Pubic lice infestations often trigger cutaneous allergic responses. Contact with the insects’ saliva or feces can provoke immediate hypersensitivity, presenting as localized erythema, pruritus, and edema.

Typical allergic manifestations include:

Red, raised welts surrounding the site of bite
Intensified itching that worsens after exposure to heat or friction
Small vesicles or urticarial plaques developing within hours

These signs may overlap with the primary indicators of a lice infestation, such as visible nits attached to hair shafts, gray‑white specks resembling “caviar,” and a characteristic “crawling” sensation. Distinguishing factors are:

Allergic reactions lack the presence of viable lice or nits on the pubic hair.
Inflammation from an allergy appears more diffuse, whereas lice bites are confined to areas where the insects attach.
The rash associated with an allergic response often spreads beyond the immediate vicinity of the hair follicles.

When allergic symptoms are suspected, management should involve:

Removal of all visible lice and nits using fine‑toothed combs or medicated shampoos.
Application of topical antihistamines or corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and itching.
Oral antihistamines for systemic relief if pruritus is severe.
Monitoring for secondary bacterial infection, indicated by increased warmth, pus, or persistent swelling, and initiating appropriate antibiotics if needed.

Recognizing the distinction between an allergic reaction and the direct effects of pubic lice enables accurate self‑assessment and timely treatment.

When to Seek Professional Help

Confirming Diagnosis

Identifying the presence of pubic lice requires a systematic visual examination and, when necessary, laboratory confirmation.

The adult parasite measures 1–2 mm, appears as a grayish‑brown crab‑shaped insect, and clings to the base of hair shafts. Nits (eggs) are oval, about 0.5 mm long, and attached firmly to hair shafts near the skin. Viable nits are opaque; empty shells become translucent after hatching.

A reliable confirmation protocol includes:

Direct inspection – Use a magnifying lens (10× or greater) in a well‑lit area. Scan the pubic region, perianal skin, and any other coarse hair zones (chest, abdomen, armpits, facial hair). Look for live lice and attached nits.
Pin‑head test – Gently pull a few hairs. If a nit remains attached to the shaft close to the scalp, the infestation is likely active.
Dermatoscopy – Employ a handheld dermatoscope to obtain a clear image of the parasite’s morphology, confirming characteristic crab‑like legs.
Microscopic examination – Collect a sample of hair with attached nits and place it on a slide. Under a light microscope, verify the presence of the characteristic elongated body and eight legs of « Pthirus pubis ».
Laboratory analysis – If visual identification is inconclusive, send the specimen to a reference laboratory. DNA‑based assays can differentiate pubic lice from other ectoparasites.

Documentation of findings should include photographic evidence when possible, noting the location and number of lice and nits. Confirmation of diagnosis enables appropriate treatment and prevents transmission.

Treatment Options

Effective management of pubic lice requires prompt eradication to prevent reinfestation and secondary infection. Treatment strategies combine pharmacologic agents with mechanical removal and environmental control.

Topical pediculicides: 1 % permethrin cream applied to the affected area for ten minutes, then rinsed; pyrethrins combined with piperonyl‑butoxide applied similarly. Both products are available over the counter and target the louse’s nervous system.
Prescription options: oral ivermectin 200 µg/kg administered as a single dose, repeated after 7 days if live lice persist; alternative oral agents include malathion lotion for individuals intolerant to pyrethrins.
Manual extraction: fine‑toothed combs or tweezers used to remove nits and adult insects after applying a soothing oil (e.g., mineral oil) to loosen attachments. This method complements chemical treatment and reduces residual debris.
Hygiene measures: wash all clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥50 °C) and dry on high heat; items unsuitable for laundering should be sealed in plastic bags for two weeks to starve surviving lice.
Follow‑up: re‑examine the area 1–2 weeks post‑treatment; persistent pruritus or visible lice warrants a second application of the chosen pediculicide or escalation to oral therapy.

Preventing Reinfestation

Detecting pubic lice on one’s own body often prompts concerns about recurrence. Effective measures focus on eliminating the parasite, reducing sources of re‑exposure, and maintaining a clean environment.

Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (minimum 130 °F) and dry on high heat; heat kills lice and nits.
Seal non‑washable items (e.g., pillows, stuffed toys) in plastic bags for two weeks; this deprives lice of a host.
Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and vehicle seats; discard vacuum bags immediately.
Avoid sharing personal items such as razors, combs, or underwear until they have been disinfected or replaced.
Treat sexual partners simultaneously with an appropriate pediculicide; untreated partners act as reservoirs.
Apply a single‑dose topical treatment (e.g., permethrin 1 % cream rinse) according to medical guidance; repeat after seven days to target hatching nits.
Refrain from sexual activity or close skin‑to‑skin contact for at least 48 hours after treatment completion.

Continuous vigilance—regular self‑inspection after the initial cure and prompt action at the first sign of lice—prevents re‑infestation and supports long‑term resolution.