How can one check for lice on the head?

How can one check for lice on the head? - briefly

Part the hair into small sections, wet it, and run a fine-toothed lice comb from the scalp outward, checking each pass for live insects or nits attached within a quarter‑inch of the hair shaft. Repeat the process across the entire head to ensure thorough detection.

How can one check for lice on the head? - in detail

Detecting head‑lice infestations requires a systematic visual inspection of the scalp and hair. Begin by preparing a well‑lit area; natural daylight or a bright lamp reduces the chance of missing small insects. Use a fine‑toothed comb, preferably a metal nit‑comb with teeth spaced 0.2 mm apart, to separate strands and expose the base of the hair shaft.

1. Separate hair into sections. Clip each portion away from the scalp with a hair tie or clip, then comb from the root to the tip in a single, steady motion. Wipe the comb on a white tissue after each pass to reveal any captured organisms.
2. Examine the comb and tissue for three indicators:
   • Live adult lice, measuring 2–4 mm, gray‑brown, with six legs.
   • Nits (lice eggs) attached firmly to the hair shaft within ¼ inch of the scalp; they appear oval, white or yellowish, and do not slide when the hair is gently pulled.
   • Viable nymphs, smaller than adults, translucent to light brown.
3. Repeat the process on all areas of the head, including the nape, behind the ears, and along the hairline, where lice preferentially lay eggs.
4. After each section, rinse the comb in warm, soapy water to prevent cross‑contamination.

Additional verification methods include:

• Using a magnifying glass (10×) to improve visibility of nits close to the scalp.
• Conducting a “wet comb” technique: dampen hair with water and a small amount of conditioner, then comb as described; the slick surface makes nits easier to dislodge.
• Performing a brief scalp massage to stimulate lice movement, increasing the likelihood of spotting them.

If any live lice or viable nits are found, note their location and quantity to guide treatment decisions. Absence of these signs after a thorough examination indicates no current infestation. Regular checks—once weekly for a month after treatment or during an outbreak—help ensure early detection and prevent re‑infestation.