How to find lice? - briefly
Inspect the scalp and hair, focusing on the nape, behind the ears, and the crown, and run a fine‑tooth comb through wet strands to reveal live lice or their attached nits.
How to find lice? - in detail
Detecting head‑lice infestations requires systematic visual examination and proper tools.
Begin with a well‑lit environment. Separate the hair into sections of about two inches and use a fine‑toothed lice comb. Run the comb from the scalp outward, wiping each stroke on a white tissue or towel. Look for live insects, which appear as small, grayish‑brown bodies about the size of a sesame seed, and for nits, which are oval, translucent or yellowish eggs firmly attached to the hair shaft within a quarter‑inch of the scalp.
Key inspection points include:
- The nape of the neck, behind the ears, and the crown, where lice preferentially congregate.
- Hair that is short, medium, or long; the same method applies, though longer hair may require additional sectioning.
- Scalp skin for redness or small bite marks that indicate scratching.
If visual cues are ambiguous, employ a magnifying glass (10×) to enhance detail. For infants or individuals with very fine hair, a wet‑comb technique improves visibility: dampen the hair, apply a conditioner to reduce tangles, then comb as described.
After the initial scan, repeat the process after 24–48 hours. Lice hatch from eggs within 7–10 days; a second examination catches newly emerged insects that were previously hidden.
Environmental checks complement personal inspection. Examine bedding, hats, scarves, and hair accessories by shaking them over a white sheet and inspecting for crawling insects or attached nits. Wash washable items in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Non‑washable items should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks to starve any survivors.
Document findings with photographs if possible, then consult a healthcare professional for confirmation and treatment options. Accurate identification prevents unnecessary medication and ensures timely eradication.