How to Spot Head Lice

Head lice are tiny parasites that live on human scalps. They readily transfer from person to person through direct contact, or sharing of brushes, hats or other items used on the hair. They are a common problem and their presence is not an indication of poor hygiene. Quite the opposite--lice prefer clean hair. Identification of their presence is the first step in successful removal.

Instructions

• 1

  Identify possible symptoms. A victim often experiences a crawly feeling on the scalp. Excessive itching is common. Sores can develop as well, and then become infected.

• 2

  Search for lice both on the head and in sleeping areas. Lice are very small, tan or grey insects with six legs and a large abdomen. Adults are approximately 1/2 the size of a grain of rice. Nymphs, or young lice, are even smaller. Head lice must feed on human blood, and die after two days without a meal. A dead louse found in the sleeping area can still be an indication of an active infestation.

• 3

  Examine the scalp for signs of eggs. Lice eggs, called nits, are oval and the size of a grain of sand. The color varies from white to brown depending on the age of the nymph inside. Lice lay their eggs very close to the scalp, firmly attaching each one to individual hair shafts. Unlike dandruff, they stand firm when blown with a hair dryer. You will fin eggs on hair in the warmest areas of the scalp, around the ears and neckline. The eggs do not require care from an adult. Lice are self reliant and can feed the moment they hatch.

• 4

  Treat the problem at the first sign of an infestation. Lice multiply rapidly and they do not depart on their own. A delay in treatment can only result in a larger problem.