Lice: what do they look like and how to deal with them? - briefly
Head lice are small, wingless insects 2–4 mm long, grayish‑white in color, with six legs that grasp hair shafts; their eggs (nits) appear as tiny, oval, cemented structures near the scalp. Effective control combines a pediculicide shampoo or lotion applied per label instructions, meticulous combing with a fine‑toothed nit comb, and laundering of personal items in hot water to prevent reinfestation.
Lice: what do they look like and how to deal with them? - in detail
Lice are small, wing‑less insects that infest human hair and clothing. Adult head lice measure 2–4 mm, have a flattened, elongated body, six legs with clawed tarsi, and a color ranging from gray‑white to brown. Nymphs resemble adults but are smaller and lack fully developed reproductive organs. Eggs, called nits, are oval, 0.8 mm long, and adhere firmly to hair shafts with a cement‑like secretion, making them difficult to remove.
Identifying an infestation requires close examination of the scalp and hair. Live insects move quickly when the head is tilted, while nits appear as stationary, oval specks positioned within 1 cm of the scalp. A thorough inspection should be performed on all family members, especially after contact with an infected individual or shared items such as hats, brushes, or bedding.
Effective eradication combines mechanical removal, chemical treatment, and environmental control.
- Mechanical removal: Use a fine‑toothed nit comb on wet, conditioned hair. Comb from the scalp outward in sections, wiping the comb after each pass. Repeat daily for at least ten days to catch newly hatched nymphs.
- Chemical agents: Apply a pediculicide approved by health authorities (e.g., permethrin 1 % or dimethicone‑based lotion). Follow label instructions precisely, covering the scalp and hair for the recommended duration. A second application after seven to ten days eliminates survivors that emerged after the first treatment.
- Environmental measures: Wash clothing, hats, and bedding used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks, depriving lice of a host. Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture to remove stray insects.
Monitoring after treatment is essential. Inspect the scalp every 2–3 days for at least three weeks. Persistent live lice or newly emerged nits indicate treatment failure and may require an alternative pediculicide or professional medical advice.
Prevention focuses on limiting head‑to‑head contact, avoiding sharing personal items, and conducting regular checks in settings where close contact is common, such as schools or daycare centers.