How can I check whether I have lice? - briefly
Examine the scalp and hair with a fine-tooth comb under bright light, checking for live insects or oval, white nits attached within a quarter inch of the roots, especially behind the ears and at the neck. Use a magnifying lens if needed to confirm any suspected lice.
How can I check whether I have lice? - in detail
To determine the presence of head‑lice, follow a systematic visual and tactile examination. Begin with a well‑lit environment; natural daylight or a bright lamp provides the contrast needed to spot translucent eggs and small insects. Separate the hair into sections, starting at the crown and moving outward, using a fine‑tooth lice comb. Comb each section from scalp to tip, wiping the comb on a white surface after each pass to reveal any captured specimens.
Key locations for inspection include:
- The hairline at the forehead and temples.
- The area behind the ears.
- The nape of the neck.
- The top of the head, especially where hair is dense.
Look for two primary indicators:
- Nits – oval, cemented to the hair shaft within ¼ inch of the scalp, often resembling dandruff but immobile and firmly attached.
- Live lice – tan or grayish insects, roughly the size of a sesame seed, moving quickly when disturbed.
If a comb alone does not reveal clear evidence, enhance detection with a wet‑comb method: dampen the hair with water and a small amount of conditioner, then repeat the combing process. The conditioner slows the insects, making them easier to capture. Use a magnifying glass for close inspection of any suspected nits; a true nit will not slide easily when pulled.
When an infestation is confirmed, isolate personal items (hats, hair accessories, bedding) and launder them in hot water (≥ 130 °F) or place them in a sealed bag for two weeks. Treat the scalp with an approved pediculicide according to the product’s instructions, and repeat the combing process after 7–10 days to remove newly hatched lice. Continue weekly inspections for at least three weeks to ensure complete eradication.