How can I recognize lice on hair? - briefly
Examine the scalp and each hair strand for small, oval, gray‑white insects roughly the size of a sesame seed, and for moving nits attached firmly close to the roots. Nits look like tiny, yellowish‑brown specks that do not slide off when the hair is brushed.
How can I recognize lice on hair? - in detail
Lice infestations become apparent through several observable signs. The adult insect measures 2–4 mm, has a gray‑brown body, six legs, and moves quickly across the hair shaft. When scanning the scalp, look for the following characteristics:
- Live insects: Small, translucent or darkened bodies that can be seen moving from one strand to another. They often cling close to the scalp where warmth is greatest.
- Nits (eggs): Oval, 0.8 mm long, firmly attached to the side of a hair shaft. Viable nits appear tan or brown and are positioned within ¼ inch of the scalp; older, empty shells turn white and may detach more easily.
- Itching or irritation: Persistent scalp itching, especially after a period of inactivity (e.g., after a nap), can indicate a reaction to saliva injected by feeding lice.
- Redness or small sores: Result from scratching and may be accompanied by a faint, watery discharge.
Effective detection requires a systematic approach:
- Separate hair into sections using clips or hair ties to expose the entire scalp.
- Inspect each section with a magnifying lens or a bright flashlight held close to the hair.
- Run a fine‑tooth (nit) comb from the scalp outward, wiping the comb on a white surface after each pass to reveal any captured insects or nits.
- Examine the combed hair for live lice and attached nits; repeat the process until no additional specimens appear.
- Check behind ears and at the nape where lice favor warmer, less exposed regions.
If any live lice or viable nits are found, the presence of an infestation is confirmed. Absence of these signs after thorough examination suggests that lice are not currently present.