What should I do if there are lice but no nits? - briefly
Apply an approved lice treatment and comb the hair with a fine-tooth lice comb, then repeat the procedure after 7–10 days to eliminate any newly hatched insects. Wash clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water and avoid sharing combs or hats to prevent re‑infestation.
What should I do if there are lice but no nits? - in detail
Finding live head lice without visible eggs indicates an active infestation that may be in its early stage or that eggs have been missed during inspection. Immediate action reduces the chance of spread and prevents the population from expanding.
First, confirm the presence of insects by using a fine-tooth comb on damp hair. Run the comb from the scalp to the ends, wiping it after each pass. Examine the comb and the hair for moving lice; their size is about 2–3 mm, and they move quickly.
If lice are confirmed, begin treatment with a pediculicide approved for the age of the person affected. Follow the product’s instructions precisely: apply the solution or lotion, leave it on for the recommended duration, then rinse thoroughly. Do not skip the waiting period, even if the lice appear to be gone.
After the initial application, repeat the treatment after 7–10 days. This second round eliminates any newly hatched lice that survived the first dose, because eggs that were not detected will have matured and emerged.
Concurrent non‑chemical measures help eradicate hidden eggs and reduce re‑infestation:
- Wash all recently worn clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats to remove stray insects.
- Soak combs, brushes, and hair accessories in hot water for 10 minutes or disinfect them with alcohol.
- Avoid sharing personal items such as hats, hair clips, or headphones until the infestation is cleared.
Monitor the scalp daily for the next two weeks. Use a fine-tooth comb every 2–3 days to detect any remaining lice. If live insects persist after two treatment cycles, consider switching to a different class of pediculicide or consulting a healthcare professional for prescription options.
Document the dates of treatment and follow‑up checks. Maintaining a clear record simplifies communication with medical providers and ensures that the eradication process is completed without gaps.