How to find lice in the head? - briefly
Examine the scalp with a fine‑tooth comb on wet hair, checking for live insects and for nits firmly attached to hair shafts near the skin. Pay particular attention to the nape, behind the ears, and the temples, where infestations are most frequent.
How to find lice in the head? - in detail
Detecting head‑lice infestation requires systematic visual examination and appropriate tools.
A close‑up inspection begins by separating the hair into sections. Use a fine‑tooth comb or a lice‑comb to pull hair away from the scalp, starting at the crown and moving outward. Examine each strand under adequate lighting, looking for live insects and for oval, white or brownish ovals firmly attached to the hair shaft. These ovals, known as «nits», are typically found within 1 cm of the scalp and are difficult to dislodge.
Essential equipment includes:
- Fine‑tooth or metal lice‑comb, preferably with teeth spaced 0.2 mm apart.
- Magnifying glass or handheld loupe with at least 3× magnification.
- Bright, preferably white, light source to enhance contrast.
Key visual indicators:
- Live, brownish insects moving quickly when the hair is disturbed.
- Empty egg shells, or «nits», that appear translucent and may be mistaken for dandruff.
- Red or irritated spots on the scalp where insects have bitten.
A step‑by‑step procedure for thorough detection:
- Wet the hair thoroughly; moisture slows the insects and makes them more visible.
- Apply a small amount of conditioner to reduce hair friction and facilitate combing.
- Starting at the nape, place the comb close to the scalp and draw it through a small section of hair.
- After each pass, wipe the comb on a white tissue to reveal any captured insects or eggs.
- Continue the process, moving systematically across the entire scalp, including behind the ears and at the hairline.
If no insects are observed after the initial scan, repeat the examination after 7–10 days, as newly hatched lice may become detectable.
Alternative detection methods, such as lice‑detection sprays that temporarily immobilize insects, can supplement visual checks but should not replace the manual combing technique.
Consistent, detailed inspection combined with the use of specialized combs and adequate lighting provides the most reliable means of confirming the presence of head‑lice.