How to check for lice on your own head?

Understanding Head Lice

What Are Head Lice?

Life Cycle of Lice

Understanding the development phases of head lice clarifies when and where to look during a self‑inspection. The insect progresses through three distinct stages, each with characteristic size and location on the scalp.

Egg (nits) – Oval, firmly attached to hair shafts near the scalp. Length ≈ 0.8 mm; color ranges from white to yellowish. Presence indicates recent oviposition.
Nymph – Immature louse emerging from the egg after 7–10 days. Size increases from 1 mm to 4 mm over successive molts. Nymphs feed on blood and hide among hair strands.
Adult – Fully grown louse, 5–6 mm long, capable of laying up to 6 eggs per day. Adults reside close to the scalp where temperature supports rapid feeding.

The complete cycle lasts 21 days under optimal conditions (temperature ≈ 30 °C, humidity ≈ 70 %). Eggs hatch within the first week; nymphal stages require three molts, each lasting about 4 days; adulthood persists for up to 30 days if not removed. Because eggs are glued to hair close to the scalp, they remain visible even after the louse has detached, while live insects move quickly and may be missed without careful inspection.

During a personal scalp examination, focus on the following points:

Part hair in small sections, starting at the neckline and moving upward.
Use a fine‑toothed comb to separate strands, exposing the hair shaft.
Look for nits attached at a 45° angle to the shaft; discard any that are loose, as they are not viable.
Scan for moving insects, especially near the ears, nape, and crown where temperature is highest.
Repeat the process every 2–3 days for two weeks to detect newly hatched nymphs before they mature.

By aligning the inspection schedule with the known timing of each developmental stage, detection becomes systematic and reliable.

Common Misconceptions

Many individuals assume that detecting head lice requires specialized equipment or professional assistance. This belief leads to delayed treatment and unnecessary anxiety.

Lice are visible only with a magnifying glass.
Absence of itching proves an infestation is impossible.
Finding a single egg means the problem is resolved.
Adult insects cannot survive on short hair.
Over‑the‑counter shampoos eliminate the need for manual inspection.

A magnifying device improves clarity but is not mandatory; a good light source and close visual examination reveal adult lice and nits. Itching may be absent, especially in early stages, so lack of discomfort does not exclude infestation. Detecting one egg does not indicate eradication; multiple nits commonly accompany a single specimen. Head lice attach to any hair length, using the scalp for warmth and feeding, so short hairstyles provide no protection. Chemical treatments may kill insects but do not guarantee removal of all eggs; manual combing remains the most reliable method for confirming a clean scalp.

Why Self-Checking is Important

Self‑inspection allows immediate identification of live nits or adult insects, eliminating reliance on external evaluation that may delay treatment. Detecting an infestation at its earliest stage reduces the number of parasites that can multiply, thereby limiting the chance of transmission to close contacts.

Early discovery shortens the period of active feeding, decreasing scalp irritation and secondary infections.
Personal examination avoids the cost and scheduling constraints of professional appointments.
Private assessment respects individual confidentiality and removes potential embarrassment associated with third‑party diagnosis.
Knowledge of one’s own condition empowers timely implementation of appropriate remedies, such as targeted combing or topical agents.

Because lice spread rapidly through direct head contact, each day without verification increases the risk of an outbreak within families, schools, or workplaces. Regular self‑checks create a preventive barrier that safeguards both the individual and the surrounding community.

Preparing for the Lice Check

Gathering Your Supplies

Fine-Toothed Comb (Nit Comb)

A fine‑toothed nit comb is the most reliable instrument for self‑inspection of head lice. The teeth are spaced 0.2–0.3 mm apart, allowing each louse egg and adult to be caught while letting hair pass through.

Before combing, dampen hair with a spray bottle or apply a small amount of conditioner to reduce slip. Divide the scalp into sections no wider than 2 cm. Starting at the root, pull the comb through each section in a single, slow stroke toward the tip. After each pass, wipe the teeth on a white tissue or rinse them in a bowl of hot water to reveal any captured insects.

Repeat the process on the same section at least three times, moving the comb slightly forward each pass to ensure complete coverage. Continue until every part of the scalp has been examined. Discard any live lice or nits found, and wash the comb in hot, soapy water for at least five minutes.

Key points for effective use:

Teeth spacing: 0.2–0.3 mm
Hair condition: wet or conditioned
Section size: ≤2 cm width
Passes per section: minimum three
Post‑comb cleaning: hot, soapy water

Regular checks, performed every 2–3 days, detect reinfestations early and prevent spread. The nit comb remains the gold standard for personal lice detection because it physically removes organisms without chemical exposure.

Bright Light Source

A bright light source provides the illumination needed to detect lice and nits on a scalp without assistance. Intense, focused lighting creates contrast between the dark insects and the surrounding hair, allowing visual identification of tiny, translucent eggs attached close to the hair shaft.

The most effective lighting options include:

Handheld LED lamp with adjustable brightness.
Small magnifying glass equipped with built‑in illumination.
High‑intensity flashlight positioned at a short distance.
Direct natural sunlight filtered through a white cloth to diffuse glare.

When conducting a self‑inspection, follow these steps:

Position the light source directly above the head, maintaining a distance of 5‑10 cm to avoid heat buildup.
Part the hair into sections of 1‑2 cm using a fine‑toothed comb; hold each section under the beam.
Examine each strand for the characteristic oval nits, typically 0.8 mm in length, and for moving lice, which appear as small, brownish insects.
Mark any suspicious spots with a non‑permanent marker to revisit after a short interval.
Repeat the process across the entire scalp, ensuring no area is left unlit.

Safety considerations: avoid staring directly into the light to protect the eyes, and clean the lamp surface before each use to prevent cross‑contamination. A well‑lit examination reduces false negatives and supports prompt treatment decisions.

Magnifying Glass

A magnifying glass is an essential tool for a thorough self‑examination of the scalp when looking for lice. The device enlarges the visual field, allowing you to see the small, translucent bodies and nits attached to hair shafts.

When using a magnifying glass for lice detection, follow these steps:

Choose a lens with at least 2× magnification; higher power (5×–10×) reveals finer details.
Ensure adequate lighting; natural daylight or a bright lamp reduces shadows.
Part the hair in sections, starting at the crown and moving outward.
Hold the lens close to the scalp, maintaining a comfortable distance to keep the image in focus.
Scan each section slowly, looking for live lice (brown, oval, 2–3 mm) and nits (tiny, oval, firmly attached near the root).
After inspecting a section, repeat the process on the opposite side of the head to avoid missing hidden infestations.

Additional considerations:

Clean the lens before each use to prevent visual distortion.
Use a fine‑tooth comb in conjunction with the magnifying glass to detach any discovered nits.
Record the locations where lice are found to target treatment more precisely.

By employing a magnifying glass with proper lighting and systematic scanning, you can accurately identify an infestation without assistance.

Hair Clips or Ties

Hair clips and ties serve as practical tools during a personal head‑lice inspection. Secure the hair with a clip or elastic band to separate sections, exposing the scalp and allowing a clear view of each strand.

Choose a fine‑toothed comb and a bright light source.
Part the hair into 1‑inch sections; hold each section with a clip or tie.
Run the comb from the scalp outward, examining the comb teeth after each pass.
Look for live lice, nits attached to hair shafts, or brownish specks near the roots.
Release the clip, move to the next section, and repeat until the entire scalp is covered.

Using clips or ties prevents hair from slipping back into the comb’s path, reduces the chance of missing hidden eggs, and speeds up the examination. After the process, wash the clips or ties in hot water (minimum 130 °F) to eliminate any transferred parasites. Regular inspection with this method can detect infestations early, limiting spread.

White Towel or Cloth

A white towel or cloth provides a high‑contrast background that makes lice and nits easier to see during a personal inspection. The bright surface reveals the dark bodies of insects and their translucent eggs against the fabric, reducing the likelihood of missed spots.

When conducting a self‑examination, follow these steps:

Place the towel on a flat surface and lay the head over it, hair downwards.
Use a fine‑toothed comb to run through each section of hair, starting at the scalp and moving toward the ends.
After each pass, wipe the comb on the towel; any lice or nits will become visible as dark specks on the white background.
Inspect the towel closely, looking for oval-shaped nits attached to hair shafts and small, brownish insects moving on the fibers.
Repeat the process on all regions of the scalp, including the back of the neck and behind the ears.

The towel should be washed in hot water after each use to eliminate any captured parasites and prevent re‑infestation. A clean, white cloth can be reused for subsequent checks, ensuring consistent detection accuracy.

Bowl of Soapy Water

A bowl filled with warm, mildly soaped water serves as a practical aid when inspecting the scalp for lice. The soap reduces surface tension, allowing eggs and nymphs to detach more easily from hair strands during visual examination.

Prepare the solution by mixing a few drops of gentle liquid soap into a cup of water heated to a comfortable temperature (about 35 °C). Stir until the mixture is uniformly foamy; avoid harsh detergents that could irritate the skin.

Use the bowl as follows:

Part the hair into sections of 2–3 cm using a fine-toothed comb.
Submerge each section briefly, allowing the soapy water to coat the strands.
Observe the hair under adequate lighting; the reduced adhesion makes nits and live lice more visible.
Remove each section and repeat until the entire scalp has been examined.

After inspection, rinse the hair thoroughly with plain water to eliminate any residual soap. The method provides a clear view of infestations without the need for chemical treatments.

Choosing the Right Environment

A reliable self‑inspection for head lice depends on the environment in which it is performed. Adequate lighting is the first requirement; natural daylight or a bright, white lamp reveals lice and nits more clearly than dim or colored light. Position a mirror at eye level and illuminate the scalp from multiple angles to eliminate shadows that can hide eggs.

A clean, clutter‑free surface minimizes the risk of accidentally transferring insects between hair sections. Lay a plain towel or disposable sheet on the chair or bed, and keep the surrounding area free of loose fabrics or toys that could harbor parasites.

Temperature influences lice activity. Conduct the examination in a room that is comfortably warm (around 20‑22 °C or 68‑72 °F); cooler environments may cause lice to become less active, making detection more difficult.

Privacy ensures thoroughness. Choose a private space where interruptions are unlikely, allowing the examiner to focus on each section of hair without hurry. This also reduces the chance of contaminating other surfaces or individuals.

When preparing the setting, follow these steps:

Select a well‑lit room; open curtains or use a high‑intensity lamp.
Arrange a clean, flat surface and cover it with a disposable barrier.
Set the room temperature to a moderate, comfortable level.
Secure a full‑length mirror and a fine‑tooth comb within easy reach.
Eliminate distractions and ensure no one else enters the area during the inspection.

By controlling lighting, cleanliness, temperature, and privacy, the examiner creates optimal conditions for locating live lice and nits, thereby increasing the accuracy of the self‑check.

The Step-by-Step Self-Check Process

Sectioning Your Hair

Starting with the Nape of the Neck

Begin the inspection at the nape of the neck, where lice eggs (nits) are most likely to attach. The hair in this area is dense, the skin is less visible, and the warmth of the scalp promotes egg placement.

Position a bright, handheld light source directly above the nape.
Part the hair into thin sections using a fine-tooth comb or a lice detection comb.
Run the comb from the scalp outward, holding the hair taut to expose the base of each strand.
Examine each comb tooth for oval, white or yellowish specks glued to the hair shaft. These are nits; live lice appear as small, brownish insects moving quickly.
After each pass, wipe the comb on a white tissue to confirm the presence of eggs or insects.
Repeat the process across the entire nape, moving laterally until the whole area is covered.

If nits are observed, treat the entire head to prevent spread. If none are found, continue the self‑examination by moving upward to the crown, sides, and behind the ears, using the same method. Consistent, systematic checks ensure early detection and effective control.

Moving to Behind the Ears

When searching for head‑lice, the area behind the ears deserves special attention because nymphs and adult insects often congregate there. The skin is thin, hair density is high, and warmth creates an ideal environment for the parasites.

Begin by positioning a bright light source directly over the head. Part the hair at the hairline, then work the comb or fingers toward the posterior region of the skull. Hold the hair away from the scalp to expose the skin beneath the ear. Examine the skin surface for live insects, translucent eggs (nits) firmly attached to hair shafts, or brownish specks indicating fecal matter.

Key actions for the behind‑ear inspection:

Use a fine‑toothed lice comb; run it slowly from the hairline to the back of the ear, repeating several times.
After each pass, wipe the comb on a white tissue to reveal any captured lice or nits.
Feel the skin with fingertips for a gritty or crawling sensation that may not be visible.
If hair is long, separate strands with a wide‑tooth comb before focusing on the area directly adjacent to the ear cartilage.
Repeat the process on both sides of the head, as lice can migrate quickly.

Concluding the examination, wash the comb in hot, soapy water and disinfect the area with an alcohol wipe. Document any findings, then follow the appropriate treatment protocol if infestation is confirmed.

Checking the Crown and Temples

When inspecting for lice, focus on the crown and temples because these areas often harbor eggs and nymphs. Begin by parting the hair at the top of the head, near the scalp’s highest point. Use a fine-toothed comb, preferably a lice comb, and pull the hair away from the skull. Examine the comb teeth after each pass; look for live insects, translucent nits attached to hair shafts, or brownish shell casings.

Next, move to the temples. Separate the hair in small sections, pulling the skin taut to expose the follicle region. Run the comb from the hair line inward, checking both the outer and inner sides of each strand. Pay special attention to the area just behind the ear, where lice commonly hide.

Repeat the process twice, allowing a few minutes between passes to dislodge any missed eggs. After each inspection, wipe the comb on a damp cloth and disinfect it with alcohol to prevent cross‑contamination.

Key steps

Part hair at the crown; comb through with a lice comb.
Inspect comb for live lice, nits, or shell casings.
Section hair at the temples; repeat combing and inspection.
Re‑examine after a short interval.
Clean and disinfect the comb.

Thorough examination of these two zones increases detection accuracy and reduces the likelihood of an unnoticed infestation.

Combing Technique

How to Hold the Comb

When inspecting your scalp for lice, the comb must be gripped to maximize control and pressure. Hold the comb with the thumb positioned on the back of the handle and the index finger wrapped around the front, creating a pinching action that steadies the tool. This grip allows you to slide the teeth smoothly through hair while maintaining sufficient force to capture live insects and nits.

Maintain the wrist in a neutral position; avoid excessive bending that reduces stability. Align the comb’s teeth perpendicular to the hair shaft and move from the scalp outward in short, overlapping strokes. After each pass, wipe the teeth on a tissue or rinse under running water to remove captured specimens before the next section.

For thorough examination, repeat the process on each section of the head, focusing on areas where lice commonly reside: behind the ears, at the nape of the neck, and along the hairline. Consistent grip and steady movement ensure accurate detection and reduce the chance of missing hidden nits.

Comb from Scalp to Ends

A reliable self‑inspection for head lice relies on a fine‑tooth comb applied from the scalp outward. Begin with dry hair, good illumination, and a comb with teeth spaced 0.2 mm apart. Separate the hair into manageable sections; a clip can hold each section while you work.

Position the comb tip directly on the scalp at the base of a section.
Pull the comb slowly toward the tips, keeping the teeth engaged with the hair throughout the motion.
After each pass, lift the comb, wipe the teeth on a white tissue or paper towel to expose any captured insects or eggs.
Repeat the process on the same section three times, then move to the next section.

Inspect the collected debris for live lice (approximately the size of a sesame seed) and for nits firmly attached within ¼ inch of the scalp. Detached nits may be present on the comb but are not indicative of infestation.

If any lice or nits are identified, repeat the combing procedure after 7–10 days to capture newly hatched nits. Combine thorough combing with an approved topical treatment for complete eradication.

Inspecting the Comb After Each Stroke

When you comb your hair to search for lice, examine the comb after every pass. This practice reveals live insects, nymphs, and eggs that might otherwise remain hidden among strands.

After each stroke, place the comb on a white surface (paper towel, towel, or clear plastic). The contrast makes tiny nymphs and oval eggs (nits) visible.
Look for moving specks (adult lice) and brownish or translucent ovals attached close to the hair shaft. Nits are firmly glued; they will not slide off when the comb is lifted.
If any suspect particles are seen, isolate the comb segment, note the location on the scalp, and repeat the combing in that area to confirm presence.
Clean the comb immediately after inspection. Rinse under hot running water, then soak in a solution of 70 % isopropyl alcohol for at least five minutes. Rinse again and dry before the next use to prevent cross‑contamination.

Consistent inspection after each comb stroke maximizes detection accuracy and reduces the chance of overlooking early infestations.

What to Look For

Live Lice

Live lice are mobile insects that cling to hair shafts close to the scalp. They are approximately 2–3 mm long, grayish‑brown, and move quickly when disturbed. Their bodies are flattened, allowing them to navigate between strands, and they leave a small, dark excrement spot on the scalp or hair.

Detecting live lice requires a systematic visual and tactile examination:

Part hair in small sections, starting at the nape and moving toward the crown.
Use a magnifying lens or bright light to scan each section for moving insects.
Run a fine‑tooth lice comb from the scalp outward; observe the comb for live lice or freshly detached specimens.
Feel for a tickling or crawling sensation, especially around the ears, forehead, and neckline.
Examine the base of each strand for live lice near the scalp rather than only for nits attached farther from the skin.

If a live louse is observed, note its location and count the number of specimens to assess the infestation level. Continuous daily checks for several days confirm whether treatment is effective or if re‑infestation occurs.

Nits (Lice Eggs)

Nits are the oval, white‑to‑tan eggs laid by head lice. Each nit measures about 0.8 mm in length and is firmly attached to a single hair shaft with a cement‑like substance that resists removal. The cement creates a slight bulge at the base of the hair, often visible only when the hair is examined closely.

When inspecting your scalp, use a fine‑toothed lice comb on a well‑lit surface. Separate the hair into small sections, pull each section taut, and run the comb from scalp to tip. The comb should capture any nits that are adhered near the root. After each pass, wipe the comb on a white tissue or paper towel; the contrast makes the tiny eggs easier to spot.

Key characteristics that distinguish nits from dandruff or hair debris:

Size: approximately the length of a pinhead.
Shape: oval, slightly elongated.
Attachment: one end glued to the hair shaft, the other free.
Color: translucent white, turning brown or black as the embryo matures.
Location: usually within ¼ inch of the scalp, where temperature supports development.

If a nit is found, isolate the affected hair strand and apply a small amount of a lice‑specific treatment or a suffocating oil (e.g., mineral oil) for ten minutes. Then repeat the combing process to remove the treated nits. Continue daily inspections for at least ten days, because newly hatched lice may lay additional eggs.

A concise checklist for self‑inspection:

Gather a bright light, a fine‑toothed comb, and a white surface.
Divide hair into sections of 1‑2 cm width.
Pull each section taut; run the comb from scalp outward.
Examine the combed material for oval, cemented particles.
Remove identified nits with tweezers or repeat combing after treatment.
Record findings and repeat the process every 24 hours for ten days.

Consistent, methodical examination eliminates the chance of missing nits and prevents a minor infestation from escalating.

Empty Nit Shells

Empty nit shells are the remnants of hatched lice eggs. They appear as translucent, oval structures attached to hair shafts, typically near the scalp. Their color ranges from pale yellow to off‑white, and they lack the brown or dark pigment of viable nits.

When examining your own head, locate empty shells by following these steps:

Part hair in small sections, exposing the scalp.
Use a fine‑toothed comb to pull strands through a bright light source.
Observe each attachment point; an empty shell is smooth, hollow, and does not contain a visible embryo.
Compare with live nits, which are darker, have a solid interior, and feel slightly firmer to the touch.

Empty shells indicate that a lice infestation has occurred in the past. Their presence alone does not confirm an active problem, but it suggests that eggs have already hatched. To prevent re‑infestation, remove all shells and live nits with the comb, then wash clothing, bedding, and personal items at temperatures of at least 130 °F (54 °C) or seal them in plastic bags for two weeks.

Regular self‑inspection, performed weekly, helps distinguish between residual shells and new eggs, ensuring timely treatment if live lice reappear.

Dealing with Findings

When live insects or viable eggs are confirmed, begin treatment without delay. Remove any remaining hair products that could shield parasites, then wash the scalp with hot water (at least 130 °F/54 °C) for several minutes. Follow with a thorough drying process; heat helps eliminate fragile nymphs.

Apply an approved pediculicide according to the product label: dispense the recommended amount, saturate the hair from roots to tips, and leave it for the specified exposure time. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water, avoiding vigorous scrubbing that could damage the scalp.

After the initial application, repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to target newly hatched lice that survived the first round. During the interval, perform daily inspections with a fine-toothed comb, removing any visible nits or insects. Record findings to monitor progress.

If infestation persists after two full cycles, consider the following actions:

Switch to a different class of insecticide (e.g., from pyrethrin‑based to dimethicone‑based products).
Consult a healthcare professional for prescription‑strength options.
Treat personal items (bedding, clothing, hats) by washing in hot water or sealing in airtight bags for two weeks.
Vacuum upholstered furniture and car seats; discard vacuum bags promptly.

Maintain a clean environment, avoid sharing combs or headgear, and continue regular scalp checks for at least four weeks to confirm eradication.

Post-Check Procedures

Cleaning Your Tools

When inspecting your scalp for parasites, the instruments you use must be sterile to prevent reinfestation. After each examination, place the fine-toothed comb, brush, and any tweezers in a sealed plastic bag. Submerge the items in hot water (at least 60 °C/140 °F) for ten minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Transfer them to a dishwasher or run a dedicated cycle in a washing machine using the hottest setting available. Allow all tools to air‑dry on a clean surface before storage.

For portable or delicate equipment, follow these steps:

Disassemble removable parts, if any.
Soak in a solution of 1 % sodium hypochlorite (bleach) for five minutes.
Rinse with distilled water to eliminate residue.
Store in a sealed, labeled container away from other personal items.

Regular decontamination after every self‑inspection eliminates residual eggs and reduces the risk of cross‑contamination. Maintain a schedule: clean after each use, then perform a deep cleaning weekly. Consistent hygiene of your examination tools safeguards the effectiveness of your own head‑checking routine.

What to Do If You Find Lice

Treatment Options

After a positive self‑inspection, effective treatment methods fall into two categories: chemical agents and non‑chemical approaches.

Permethrin 1 % lotion applied to dry hair, left for ten minutes, then rinsed thoroughly. Recommended for most cases; repeat in seven days to destroy newly hatched nits.
Pyrethrin combined with piperonyl butoxide, applied similarly to permethrin. Suitable for individuals with mild resistance to permethrin.
Dimethicone 4 % spray or lotion, coating each strand and covering the scalp for eight hours before washing. Works by suffocating lice and nits, minimal toxicity.
Benzyl alcohol 5 % lotion, left on hair for ten minutes, then rinsed. Effective against lice but not nits; requires a second application after one week.
Ivermectin 0.5 % lotion, applied for ten minutes before removal. Reserved for resistant infestations; prescription required.

Non‑chemical options include:

Fine‑toothed nit combing on wet, conditioned hair. Systematic combing from scalp to tips, repeated every two to three days for two weeks.
Heat treatment using a specialized dryer set to 130 °F (54 °C) for ten minutes, ensuring even coverage. Must avoid scalp burns; professional equipment recommended.
Occlusive methods such as applying a thick petroleum‑based ointment for eight hours, then combing. Effective for small infestations; may cause scalp irritation.

Adjunct measures:

Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in water ≥130 °F (54 °C) or seal them in plastic bags for two weeks.
Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture to remove stray nits.
Avoid sharing personal items such as combs, hats, or headphones.

Choosing a regimen should consider allergy history, resistance patterns, and age of the affected individual. Combining a chemical or silicone‑based product with diligent nit removal yields the highest success rate.

Informing Others

When you discover a need to examine your scalp for parasites, clear communication with those around you is essential. Explain the purpose of the inspection, describe the procedure you will follow, and outline any steps others should take if they suspect an infestation.

State the reason for the self‑examination: to identify live insects or their eggs and to prevent spread. Mention that the process requires a fine‑toothed comb, bright lighting, and a systematic approach. Advise any caregivers or classmates to watch for signs such as itching, visible nits attached close to the scalp, or small brownish insects.

Provide a concise guide that others can repeat if needed:

Gather a fine‑toothed comb, a white towel, and a well‑lit area.
Separate hair into sections of about two inches.
Comb each section from scalp to tip, wiping the comb on the towel after each pass.
Inspect the towel for live insects or oval, translucent nits attached near the hair shaft.
Repeat the process on the entire head, ensuring no area is missed.
Report any findings immediately to a responsible adult or health professional.

Clarify the next actions: if lice are found, initiate treatment promptly and inform close contacts so they can perform similar checks. Emphasize that timely sharing of results reduces the risk of further transmission.

Regular Follow-Up Checks

Regular follow‑up examinations are essential after an initial lice inspection. They confirm that any treatment was effective and detect any new infestations before they spread.

Perform follow‑up checks at 7‑day intervals for three consecutive cycles. Each session should include:

Visual inspection of the scalp and hair shafts under bright light, focusing on the nape, behind the ears, and crown.
Use of a fine‑toothed lice comb, moving from the scalp outward in 1‑inch sections.
Examination of the comb after each pass; live insects appear brownish, while nits are attached close to the hair shaft.
Documentation of findings: note the number of live lice, the presence of viable nits, and any areas of concern.

If live lice are observed, repeat treatment immediately and continue daily checks for the next 48 hours. If only nits remain, maintain combing for an additional week to remove any that may hatch. Discontinue follow‑up when two consecutive examinations show no live insects and no nits within 1 mm of the scalp.

Consistent scheduling, thorough technique, and accurate recording ensure that the infestation is fully resolved and reduce the risk of recurrence.