How to Spot Lice Nits & Eggs

Head and pubic lice can spread by attaching their nits, or eggs, to your hairs. The process of removing these eggs is known as "nit-picking" and is the most crucial element of any successful lice control system. Typically, lice attach their eggs right where your hair breaks through the skin's surface. Luckily, lice nits and eggs can be spotted and removed if you inspect the infested area of the body properly.

Things You'll Need

• Comb

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Wet a comb with water and use the comb to part the hair and inspect the area for active head lice. You can also use a magnifying glass to get a closer look at the scalp as you sift through the hair.

• 2

  Identify lice by their rust color and six legs. An adult is roughly the size of a pinhead. The lice will be located close to the scalp and you will usually see red marks where the person has been itching at the lice.

• 3

  Identify nits by their yellowish white color, close proximity to the scalp and oval shape.