How to check for lice on oneself? - briefly
Inspect the scalp by parting hair into small sections, running a fine‑tooth comb through wet hair, and checking the comb for live nits or insects. Focus on the area behind the ears, the nape, and the crown, where lice are most commonly found.
How to check for lice on oneself? - in detail
Detecting head‑lice on an individual requires systematic visual inspection and mechanical removal. The process consists of preparation, thorough examination, and verification after treatment.
Prepare the necessary items:
- Fine‑tooth lice comb (metal or plastic, spacing 0.2 mm)
- White towel or paper for easy visibility of debris
- Good lighting, preferably natural daylight or a bright lamp
- Optional magnifying glass (10×) for close inspection
Perform the examination in the following order:
- Section the hair – Divide the scalp into quadrants (front, back, left, right). Secure each section with a clip or hair tie to expose a manageable area.
- Comb through – Starting at the scalp, pull the comb through the hair to the tips in a single, slow stroke. After each pass, wipe the comb on the white surface to reveal any attached insects or eggs.
- Inspect for live lice – Live adults appear as gray‑brown, crab‑shaped bodies, 2–4 mm long. They move quickly and may be seen crawling on hair shafts or the scalp.
- Search for nits – Nits are oval, yellow‑white structures attached firmly to the hair shaft within ¼ inch of the scalp. Use the magnifying glass to differentiate nits from dandruff; nits remain fixed when the hair is gently brushed.
- Examine behind ears and neck – These areas are common hiding spots. Repeat combing and visual checks.
- Check other body regions – In severe infestations, examine eyebrows, eyelashes, and body hair with a fine comb or a disposable brush.
After the initial sweep, repeat the combing process at least three times per section to ensure no insects remain. Record the findings: number of live lice, number of nits, and locations of clusters.
If any lice or viable nits are detected, initiate treatment immediately and schedule a follow‑up examination 7–10 days later to capture newly hatched lice before they mature. Continue weekly checks for a total of four weeks to confirm eradication.
Maintain a clean environment by washing bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and vacuuming upholstered furniture. This reduces the risk of re‑infestation.