How to detect lice and nits? - briefly
Examine the scalp and hair under bright light, spotting live insects and ovoid eggs attached within ¼ inch of the hair shaft, particularly near the neck and behind the ears. Run a fine-tooth comb through wet, conditioned hair to pull out any concealed lice or nits for confirmation.
How to detect lice and nits? - in detail
Detecting head‑lice infestations requires systematic visual examination and awareness of characteristic signs.
First, observe the scalp for itching, especially after a few days of persistent irritation. Itching alone does not confirm infestation, but it signals the need for a closer look.
Second, examine hair strands under adequate lighting. Use a fine‑toothed comb (often called a lice comb) on dry hair, then repeat on wet hair. The comb’s teeth should separate each strand, allowing clear view of any attached insects or eggs.
Key visual cues include:
- Live lice: tan‑brown, about the size of a sesame seed, with six legs. They move quickly when disturbed.
- Nits: oval, white or yellowish, firmly attached to the hair shaft within ¼ inch of the scalp. They appear immobile and are often mistaken for dandruff.
- Viable nits: slightly translucent, with a visible embryo inside; older, empty shells become more opaque and brittle.
Third, confirm the presence of viable nits by gently pulling a few strands. If the nit slides easily off the shaft, it is likely an empty shell; if it resists removal, it is still viable.
Fourth, document findings. Photographing the scalp under magnification helps differentiate between live insects and debris and provides a record for follow‑up.
Fifth, repeat the inspection after 7–10 days. Newly hatched lice may appear after the initial treatment, and additional nits may be discovered as the hair grows.
Additional tools that improve detection accuracy:
- Bright, handheld magnifier (10× magnification).
- White or blue lamp to enhance contrast.
- Disposable gloves to avoid contaminating the hair.
Professional evaluation may be warranted when self‑inspection yields ambiguous results. Dermatologists or trained lice‑removal specialists can use dermatoscopes for high‑resolution assessment and verify the infestation stage.
Consistent, thorough examination using the steps above provides reliable identification of both adult parasites and their eggs, enabling timely and effective management.