What do dead lice look like on hair? - briefly
Dead lice appear as tiny, flat, tan‑brown bodies adhered to hair strands, resembling small, translucent shells. They can be confused with dandruff, but are larger, smoother, and lack the flaky texture of skin debris.
What do dead lice look like on hair? - in detail
Dead lice are small, flattened insects measuring about 2–3 mm in length. Their bodies become translucent or pale brown after death, losing the glossy sheen typical of live specimens. The exoskeleton may appear slightly wrinkled, and the legs often curl inward, making the overall shape more compact.
Color changes are noticeable. Live lice are usually grayish‑white with a faint brown tint; once dead, the cuticle turns almost colorless, sometimes appearing as a faint gray or whitish speck on the hair shaft. The head and antennae lose definition, and the eyes, which are tiny black dots on live lice, become indistinct.
Texture differs as well. Dead insects feel dry and brittle; when brushed, they may crumble into tiny fragments. Live lice move actively, producing a slight tugging sensation, whereas dead ones remain stationary and can be easily displaced by a comb.
Typical locations on the scalp include:
- Near the base of hair shafts, especially behind the ears and at the nape.
- Along the sides of the head where hair is denser.
- In areas where live lice congregate, such as the crown.
Distinguishing dead lice from nits (lice eggs) is essential. Nits are oval, firmly attached to the hair shaft, and measure about 0.8 mm, whereas dead lice are larger, less securely attached, and may slide down the hair when disturbed.
In summary, dead lice appear as pale, flattened, brittle bodies that lack movement, exhibit reduced coloration, and are often found in the same regions as live infestations but can be separated from hair with a fine-toothed comb.