How to check for lice yourself? - briefly
Part the hair into small sections and run a fine‑toothed comb through each section under bright light. Look for live insects, nits attached within a quarter‑inch of the scalp, or their brownish shells.
How to check for lice yourself? - in detail
Detecting head‑lice without professional help requires a systematic approach, proper tools, and careful observation.
Begin by gathering a fine‑toothed lice comb (metal or plastic, spacing 0.2 mm), a bright light source, a white towel or paper, and a magnifying glass if available. Choose a well‑lit area, preferably near a window or with a lamp that casts minimal shadows. Remove any hair products that could obscure the scalp.
Divide the hair into manageable sections. Starting at the crown, secure a small portion with a clip or hair tie. Wet the section with water or a light spray of conditioner; moisture immobilises lice and makes them easier to see. Place the white towel underneath to catch any falling insects.
Pass the comb through the hair from scalp to tip, moving slowly (about one centimeter per second). After each pass, wipe the comb on the towel and examine the fibers. Look for:
- Live insects: tan‑brown, oval, about the size of a sesame seed, moving quickly.
- Nits: oval, white or yellowish, firmly attached to the hair shaft within ¼ inch of the scalp. They appear as tiny beads and do not easily slide when the hair is tugged.
- Empty shells: translucent, empty nits that have already hatched.
Repeat the combing process for each section, covering the entire scalp, including the nape, behind the ears, and the hairline. Perform the inspection on a dry day, as humidity can cause nits to adhere more tightly and obscure visibility.
If any live lice or viable nits are found, document the location and quantity. Isolate the comb by soaking it in hot water (at least 50 °C) for ten minutes, then wash with soap. Wash the examined clothing, bedding, and any accessories in hot water and dry on high heat. Repeat the combing procedure every two to three days for two weeks to capture any newly hatched insects.
If no lice or nits are detected after two thorough examinations spaced 48 hours apart, the risk of infestation is low. However, maintain periodic checks, especially after contact with other individuals or shared environments.