How can you find lice and nits? - briefly
Inspect the scalp and hair with a fine-tooth comb under bright light, looking for live insects and tiny, oval, yellow‑white eggs attached close to the hair shaft. Confirm presence by checking the neck, behind ears, and at the hairline for moving lice or nits that are firmly glued to strands.
How can you find lice and nits? - in detail
Detecting head‑lice infestations requires systematic visual inspection and, when necessary, the use of specialized tools. Begin by preparing a well‑lit area and a fine‑toothed comb designed for lice detection. Separate the hair into small sections, securing each with a clip or hair tie. Comb each section from scalp to tip in a single, steady stroke, then wipe the comb on a white tissue or rinse it under running water to expose any captured organisms.
Key indicators to look for during examination:
- Live insects: gray‑brown, approximately 2–4 mm in length, moving quickly across the scalp or clinging to hair shafts.
- Nits (eggs): oval, 0.8 mm, firmly attached to the hair shaft within ¼ inch of the scalp. Viable nits appear tan or brown; empty shells are translucent and may be easier to overlook.
- Red or irritated skin: pinpoint papules or small sores indicating bite reactions.
- Excessive scratching or a “crawling” sensation reported by the host.
When visual inspection is inconclusive, supplemental methods improve accuracy:
- Wet combing – Apply a small amount of conditioner or a lice‑specific spray to damp hair, then repeat the combing process. Moisture reduces hair slip, allowing the comb to capture more insects.
- Magnification – Use a handheld magnifying glass (10×) or a smartphone camera with macro capability to examine suspected areas closely.
- Light source – A handheld LED lamp positioned close to the scalp enhances contrast, making translucent nits more visible.
- Adhesive tape test – Press a strip of clear adhesive tape against a hair section, then lift and examine under magnification. This technique can pull loose nits from the shaft for easier identification.
Document findings by noting the number and location of live lice and nits. A threshold of five or more live insects typically confirms an active infestation, while the presence of multiple viable nits indicates ongoing reproduction. Prompt treatment decisions should follow confirmed detection.