What Do Lice And Nits Look Like Identification Guide

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Accurate identification of lice and nits is critical for effective treatment and preventing infestation spread, yet distinguishing these parasites from harmless debris remains a challenge for many. Lice, microscopic yet persistent, thrive undetected on human hair, while their eggs—nits—attach firmly to shafts, mimicking dandruff or product residue. This guide dissects their physical traits, from the segmented exoskeleton of adult lice to the subtle operculum of unhatched nits, using comparative analysis and magnification techniques to clarify ambiguities. By examining visual, tactile, and behavioral cues, readers can confidently differentiate lice from common lookalikes, ensuring timely intervention before infestations escalate.

The distinction between lice and non-parasitic particles hinges on precise observation, particularly under controlled lighting and magnification. Adult lice, measuring 2–3mm, exhibit six clawed legs and a flattened body optimized for gripping hair, while nits—oval and glossy when fresh—adhere tightly to strands via a cement-like substance. Misidentification often stems from overlooking key details, such as the nit’s operculum (a lid-like cap) or the lice’s rapid, erratic movement when disturbed. This guide bridges the gap between superficial inspection and expert-level detection, providing structured methodologies to verify infestations with scientific rigor.

what do lice and nits look like

Visual Identification Guide for Lice and Nits

Accurate identification of lice (Pediculus humanus capitis) and their eggs (nits) is critical for timely intervention, as misdiagnosis can lead to delayed treatment or unnecessary stress. Lice infestations are often confirmed through visual inspection, requiring familiarity with their distinct morphological traits, life cycle stages, and common misidentifications. This guide provides a structured approach to distinguishing adult lice, nits, and hatched eggs from non-parasitic debris, using both observational techniques and comparative analysis.

Physical Characteristics of Adult Lice

Adult head lice exhibit specific anatomical features that differentiate them from other small insects or debris. Their bodies are flattened dorsoventrally (side-to-side) to navigate through hair shafts, aiding in camouflage and movement. Key distinguishing traits include:

- Size and Shape: Adult lice measure 1–3 millimeters (mm) in length, with females slightly larger than males (typically 2–3 mm vs. 1.5–2 mm). Their oval or teardrop-shaped bodies taper toward the rear, where the three pairs of legs are clustered. The six segmented antennae (two pairs) are visible near the head, used for sensory perception.

  • Color: Live lice appear translucent grayish-white to tan, often with a slightly darker abdomen due to blood ingestion. When recently fed, their bodies may exhibit a reddish or brownish tint from digested blood, though this fades within hours.
  • Legs and Claws: Each of the three pairs of legs terminates in two claws, enabling them to cling tightly to hair shafts. The second and third pairs of legs are longer, aiding in gripping coarse hair textures.
  • Movement: Unlike fleas or ticks, lice do not jump or fly; they crawl rapidly along hair shafts or clothing fibers, typically moving 10–25 centimeters per minute. Their speed increases when disturbed by heat or vibrations.

    • Important Note: Lice are host-specific and cannot survive more than 24–48 hours off a human host, which limits their transmission to direct head-to-head contact or shared personal items (e.g., hats, brushes).

    Detailed Description of Nits and Their Life Cycle Stages

    Nits are the ova (eggs) of lice, firmly attached to hair shafts near the scalp. Their appearance varies based on developmental stage and environmental conditions. Key characteristics include:

    - Size and Shape: Nits are oval and elongated, measuring 0.5–0.8 mm in length and 0.2–0.3 mm in width. They are glued to the hair shaft with a cement-like substance, making them difficult to dislodge without force.

  • Color Variations:
  • Live Nits: Initially white to pale yellow, they darken to tan or brown as they mature (typically within 7–10 days).
  • Hatched Nits: Empty shells appear white or translucent and are often collapsed or irregularly shaped due to the emerging nymph’s exit. They may remain attached to the hair shaft but lack the intact oval structure of live nits.
  • Viable vs. Non-Viable: Only nits attached within 6 mm of the scalp are considered active, as lice require body heat to hatch. Nits farther down the hair shaft are likely non-viable remnants from previous infestations.
  • Location on Hair Shafts: Nits are primarily found on the posterior nape, behind the ears, and along the hairline, where lice prefer to lay eggs due to warmer temperatures and reduced exposure to grooming tools.
  • Comparison to Dandruff or Hair Products:
  • Dandruff: Flakes are larger (1–3 mm), irregularly shaped, and loosely attached to the scalp or hair. They do not adhere to hair shafts and can be easily brushed away.
  • Hair Spray Residue: Product buildup appears as fine, powdery, or glossy deposits along the hair length, often yellowish or clear, and lacks the oval, glued structure of nits.
  • Other Debris: Lint, fibers, or dust particles are randomly distributed, lack symmetry, and are not consistently oval or attached to hair shafts.

    • Comparison Table: Lice, Nits, and Common Misidentifications

    The following table summarizes visual traits for direct comparison, including critical differences between parasitic and non-parasitic elements.
    Trait Adult Lice (Head, Body, Legs) Nits (Egg Shell, Attachment, Color) Hatched Nits (Empty Shells) Common Misidentifications
    Size 1–3 mm (females larger); oval/teardrop-shaped 0.5–0.8 mm; oval and elongated 0.5–0.8 mm; collapsed or irregular Dandruff: 1–3 mm (flakes); hair spray: fine particles
    Color Translucent gray-white to tan; reddish if recently fed White to tan (live); darkens to brown as mature White or translucent; may appear hollow Dandruff: white/gray; hair spray: yellowish/clear
    Attachment Crawls along hair shafts; clings with claws Firmly glued to hair shaft near scalp (≤6 mm) May remain attached but loose; no cement Dandruff: loosely adheres to scalp; debris: random
    Movement Rapid crawling (10–25 cm/min); does not jump/fly Stationary; immobile No movement Fleas: jump; ticks: crawl slowly
    Location Posterior nape, behind ears, hairline Primarily near scalp (active); farther down (inactive) Same as nits; may detach over time Dandruff: scalp surface; debris: throughout hair
    Distinguishing Features Six segmented antennae, three pairs of legs with claws Oval shape, cement-like glue, darkening over time Empty, collapsed shell; lacks intact oval structure Dandruff: irregular flakes; hair spray: powdery residue

    Step-by-Step Procedure for Hair Inspection

    Systematic inspection under optimal lighting conditions maximizes detection accuracy. The following method ensures thorough examination while minimizing false positives.

    Tools Required:

  • Fine-tooth metal comb (nit comb, e.g., LiceMeister or similar, with teeth spaced 0.2–0.3 mm apart).
  • Bright light source (100-watt bulb or LED magnifying lamp with adjustable focus).
  • Magnifying glass (10x magnification for close inspection).
  • White cloth or paper towel (to collect debris for verification).
  • Gloves (optional, for hygiene).

    • Procedure:
    1. Preparation of Hair:

  • Section

    • what do lice and nits look like - Ilustrasi 2

    Microscopic and Magnified Analysis of Lice and Nits

    Handheld magnifiers (10x–40x magnification) and low-power microscopes provide critical details for distinguishing live lice (Pediculus humanus capitis) from nits (eggs) and differentiating them from debris or other parasites. These tools reveal structural features—such as the segmented exoskeleton, mouthparts, and movement patterns—that are invisible to the naked eye. Observing lice under magnification also clarifies behavioral traits, including feeding mechanics, grip on hair shafts, and reactions to environmental stimuli, which are essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment assessment.
    Key microscopic identifiers for lice and nits:
  • Lice exoskeleton segments: Distinct transverse grooves separating the head, thorax, and abdomen, with visible jointed appendages (legs, antennae).
  • Nit operculum (cap) structure: A textured, dome-shaped lid at the egg’s posterior, often with a slightly raised or ridged appearance.
  • Egg yolk vs. clear fluid inside: Live nits contain a yellowish yolk sac (early-stage embryo) or clear fluid (later-stage embryo); dead nits appear collapsed or empty.
  • Distinction between live vs. dead lice: Live lice exhibit movement, reflexive reactions to pressure, and intact exoskeletons; dead lice appear shrunken, discolored (grayish-brown), or lack appendages.

    • Structural Features Revealed by Magnification

    A magnifier or microscope (10x–40x) exposes fine details critical for identification. Lice exhibit a flattened, oval body with a six-legged structure, where the thorax is wider than the abdomen, and the head bears two antennae and piercing-sucking mouthparts. The exoskeleton appears semi-translucent, with visible segmentation along the abdomen. Nits, in contrast, show a smooth, oval shell with a distinct operculum (egg cap), often attached to hair shafts via a cement-like substance.

    To document observations:

  • Measurements: Record lice width at the thorax (typically 1.0–1.5 mm) and nit length (usually 0.5–0.8 mm). Use a micrometer scale or digital caliper for precision.
  • Exoskeleton texture: Note fine setae (hairs) along the body margins and claw-like tarsal segments on legs, which aid in gripping hair.
  • Operculum details: Examine the nit’s posterior for radial striations or a slightly protruding cap, distinguishing it from dandruff or hair casts.

    • Behavioral Observations Under Magnification

    Live lice demonstrate distinct movement patterns when observed under magnification, including:
  • Crawling speed: Adults move at 1–2.5 cm per minute, often in zigzag or linear paths along hair shafts.
  • Grip mechanism: Lice use clawed tarsi to cling tightly to hair, requiring direct pressure (e.g., fingernail) to dislodge them.
  • Feeding behavior: When feeding, lice inject saliva to liquefy skin proteins, leaving behind tiny, dark fecal pellets (similar to coffee grounds) on collars or sheets. Saliva droplets may appear as glossy, transparent residues on hair.
  • Reaction to stimuli:
  • Heat: Lice become less active or immobile above 40°C (104°F), aiding in thermal treatment efficacy.
  • Pressure: Applying a glass slide or tweezers causes live lice to twitch or release grip, whereas dead specimens remain inert.

    • Documentation techniques:

  • Sketches: Draw lice orientation (e.g., head vs. abdomen position) and nit attachment points (e.g., proximity to hair root).
  • Behavior logs: Note time spent feeding, movement direction, and response latency to stimuli (e.g., seconds to immobilize after heat exposure).
  • Environmental clues: Collect fecal debris on fabric (e.g., pillowcases) for microscopic confirmation of lice presence, as these are dark, granular, and 0.1–0.3 mm in size.

    • Comparative Analysis: Live vs. Dead Specimens

    Differentiating live and dead lice under magnification relies on structural integrity and physiological responses:
    FeatureLive LiceDead Lice
    MovementActive, erratic, or directed crawlingNone; limbs may be curled inward
    ExoskeletonSemi-translucent, intact segmentsShrunken, discolored (gray/brown), or fragmented
    AppendagesLegs and antennae fully extendedBroken, detached, or missing
    Reflex ResponseTwitches when prodded or heatedNo reaction
    Internal ContentsVisible digestive tract (if transparent)Collapsed abdomen, no internal movement
    Nit viability assessment:
  • Live nits: Contain a yellowish embryo (early) or clear, segmented larva (late-stage); operculum remains intact.
  • Dead/empty nits: Appear collapsed, with no internal contents or a shattered operculum. Use a dissecting needle to gently probe the operculum—if it cracks easily, the nit is non-viable.

    • Documentation and Measurement Protocols

    Accurate recording of microscopic findings ensures consistency in diagnosis and treatment monitoring. Use the following protocols:

    For lice:

  • Body measurements: Measure thorax width and total length (adults: 2–3 mm; nymphs: 1–2 mm).
  • Leg and claw details: Sketch tarsal claws and note their curvature and size (critical for species identification).
  • Fecal analysis: Collect dark specks from hair or fabric, mount on a slide with water or glycerol, and observe under 40x magnification for granular texture.

    • For nits:

  • Attachment site: Record distance from hair root (viable nits are <6 mm from scalp).
  • Operculum morphology: Note ridging, coloration (white/yellow vs. brown), and adhesion strength (scratch test with a needle).
  • Internal contents: Use cross-polarized light (if available) to distinguish yolk sacs (early-stage) from larval segmentation (late-stage).

    • Environmental evidence:

  • Fabric debris: Examine pillowcases, collars, or hats for lice feces (black dots) or shed exoskeletons (clear, empty husks).
  • Hair casts: Differentiate nits from hair casts (cylindrical, hollow tubes) by noting operculum presence and cement-like attachment.

    • Practical Tips for Magnified Examination

    To optimize observations:
  • Lighting: Use indirect, diffused light (e.g., ring light or natural daylight) to reduce glare and enhance contrast.
  • Immobilization: Place lice on a concave slide with a cover slip to observe undisturbed movement or mouthpart mechanics.
  • Temperature control: Maintain a stable room temperature (20–25°C) to avoid heat-induced paralysis during examination.
  • Sample preparation: Wet hair slightly with water or mineral oil to improve visibility of exoskeleton details and nit opercula.
  • Safety: Avoid direct contact with lice; use tweezers or a brush to transfer specimens to slides.

    • Common pitfalls:

  • Misidentifying dandruff as nits—dandruff lacks an operculum and is easily dislodged.
  • Confusing lice feces with dirt—fecal pellets are uniformly dark and granular, unlike irregular debris.
  • Overestimating nit viability—some nits appear intact but are empty (test by gentle pressure with a needle).

    • Common Misidentifications and Clarifications in Lice and Nit Diagnosis

    Accurate identification of lice (Pediculus humanus capitis) and nits (lice eggs) is critical for effective treatment, yet misdiagnosis remains prevalent due to the presence of non-parasitic debris that mimics infestation. Misidentification often stems from superficial resemblance in color, size, or texture, leading to unnecessary stress, misapplied treatments, or delayed intervention. This section distinguishes lice and nits from common lookalikes by examining tactile, visual, and behavioral differences, alongside diagnostic red flags that indicate non-viable or unrelated findings.
    Key Principle:
    Lice and nits exhibit specific adhesion, shape, and movement—traits absent in non-parasitic debris.

    Non-Parasitic Lookalikes and Their Distinguishing Features

    Non-parasitic debris frequently confounds visual assessments, particularly in individuals with dry scalp conditions, product buildup, or environmental exposure. The following comparisons highlight critical differences in texture, adhesion, and movement, which are essential for accurate diagnosis.
    Critical Observation:
  • Lice eggs (nits) adhere firmly to the hair shaft via a cement-like substance and are oval with a tapered end.
  • Lice (nymphs/adults) exhibit slow, deliberate movement along the hair shaft, unlike static artifacts.

    • Visual and Tactile Comparison of Common Misidentifications

    Non-Parasitic DebrisVisual CharacteristicsTactile/Behavioral DifferencesDiagnostic Test
    Dandruff flakesIrregular, flaky, white or yellowish patches.Loose, crumbles easily; no adhesion to hair shaft.Gently pull at hair—flakes detach instantly without resistance.
    Seborrheic dermatitis scalesGreasy, yellowish crusts, often clustered.Sticky residue; scales may adhere but lack oval shape.Dissolves partially in water; no tapered ends.
    Hair gel crystalsGlittering, angular fragments, often near roots.Glassy texture; no organic shape; dissolves in water.Rub between fingers—crystals shatter rather than deform.
    Product buildup (e.g., hairspray, conditioner)Film-like residue, white or translucent streaks.Sticky, stringy; dissolves in water or alcohol.Wipe with a damp cloth—residue wipes away without leaving oval remnants.
    Lint fibersIrregular, thread-like, often gray or white.No adhesion; resembles loose threads.Twist hair—lint slides off without resistance.
    Pet danderFine, powdery particles, often clustered.No shape retention; resembles dust.Blow gently—dander scatters like dust.
    Minute seeds (e.g., lotus, dandelion)Oval but asymmetrical, often hollow-sounding.No tapered end; seeds detach easily when pulled.Squeeze between fingers—seeds crush or have a hollow sound.
    Static electricity artifactsFloating specks, often near hair ends.No adhesion; moves erratically with static discharge.Wave hair—specks disappear or scatter instantly.

    Red Flags Indicating Misdiagnosis of Lice or Nits

    Certain characteristics serve as clear indicators that suspected lice or nits are non-viable or unrelated to infestation. Recognizing these red flags prevents unnecessary treatment and reduces anxiety.
    Diagnostic Caution:
    A single red flag does not exclude lice, but multiple indicators strongly suggest misidentification.

    Key Red Flags in Visual and Tactile Assessments

    1. Nits that detach effortlessly from the hair shaft
    2. Viable nits are cemented to the hair and require firm pressure to remove.
    3. Non-viable nits (empty shells) or debris crumble or slide off with minimal touch.
    4. Example: If a "nit" falls off when lightly brushed, it is likely dandruff, lint, or an empty egg casing.
    5. White specks that dissolve or smear in water
    6. Lice eggs do not dissolve in water; they may soften but retain shape.
    7. Hairspray residue, conditioner buildup, or sebum dissolve or spread into a film when wet.
    8. Test: Apply a drop of water—if the speck disappears or spreads, it is not a nit.
    9. Moving specks that are not lice
    10. Mites (e.g., Demodex) or fleas may resemble lice but exhibit rapid, erratic movement or jump rather than crawl.
    11. Static electricity artifacts appear as floating specks that vanish when hair is disturbed.
    12. Differentiation:
    13. Lice move slowly and deliberately along the hair shaft.
    14. Mites move sideways or in zigzags; fleas leap away.
    15. Nits located far from the scalp (beyond 6 mm from the root)
    16. Viable nits are laid within 6 mm of the scalp due to the optimal temperature for hatching.
    17. Older, hatched egg casings may appear farther down but are empty and crumbly.
    18. Rule of Thumb: If "nits" are beyond 1 cm from the root, they are likely non-viable debris.
    19. Specks with irregular or non-oval shapes
    20. True nits are oval with a tapered end (resembling a football or grain of rice).
    21. Lint, seeds, or dandruff have irregular, asymmetrical shapes.
    22. Visual Check: Use a magnifying glass—if the shape is not uniformly oval, it is likely debris.
    23. Presence of multiple specks but no live lice observed
    24. A true infestation requires live lice (nymphs/adults) to confirm active infection.
    25. Debris alone (e.g., dandruff, product buildup) indicates no infestation.
    26. Protocol: If no moving lice are found after 3–4 examinations, the specks are not viable nits.

    Diagnostic Method: The Adhesion Test for Nits

    The adhesion test is a simple, non-invasive method to differentiate viable nits from non-parasitic debris. This test leverages the cement-like substance that binds lice eggs to the hair shaft, a trait absent in lookalikes.
    Procedure Steps:
    1. Select a suspected nit near the hair root.
    2. Grasp the hair shaft just above the speck with thumb and index finger.
    3. Gently pull downward with firm but controlled pressure.
    4. Observe resistance:
  • Viable nit: Resists detachment; may pop off with a slight squeaking sound.
  • Non-viable debris: Crumbles, slides off, or dissolves under minimal pressure.

    • Interpretation of Results

    ObservationLikely IdentificationAction Required
    Speck remains attachedViable nit (live or recently hatched)Confirm with magnification; treat if live lice are found.
    Speck crumbles or slides offEmpty egg casing or debrisNo treatment needed; monitor for live lice.
    Speck dissolves or smearsProduct buildup or dandruffCleanse hair; no further action.
    Speck shatters into fragmentsHair gel crystals or static artifactsNo infestation; discontinue misdiagnosis.
    Clinical Note:
  • Empty egg casings (post-hatching) may also resist slight pressure but lack the tapered end of viable nits.
  • Repeated testing on multiple hairs increases diagnostic accuracy.

    • what do lice and nits look like - Ilustrasi 3

    Life Cycle Stages and Visual Progression of Lice and Nits

    The life cycle of lice (Pediculus humanus capitis) progresses through three distinct stages—nit, nymph, and adult—each characterized by measurable morphological and behavioral changes. Understanding these transitions is essential for accurate diagnosis, as visual cues such as size, color, and attachment patterns vary significantly between stages. This progression also informs treatment strategies, as targeting nymphs or adults may require different interventions than addressing newly laid eggs. Below, the developmental timeline, stage-specific identifiers, and methods for tracking progression are detailed, including distinctions between first-generation and older nits.

    Developmental Timeline and Egg Hatching Process

    Nits (lice eggs) are laid by adult females and adhere firmly to the hair shaft near the scalp, where warmth and humidity optimize incubation. The hatching process follows a predictable timeline:
  • Incubation period: 7–10 days under ideal conditions (temperature: 28–32°C, humidity: 40–80%).
  • Hatching trigger: Nymphs emerge when environmental conditions (e.g., scalp heat) stimulate enzymatic weakening of the nit’s operculum (a small cap on the egg).
  • Post-hatching behavior: Empty nit shells remain attached to the hair shaft but become duller and may crack along the edges, distinguishing them from unhatched eggs.

    • Tracking progression:
    Monitor egg clusters for signs of hatching by examining the operculum for cracks or the presence of newly emerged nymphs (1–2mm in size). Older nits (beyond 10 days) often appear flattened or desiccated, while freshly laid nits retain a glossy, oval shape with a visible operculum.

    Stage-Specific Visual and Behavioral Characteristics

    The three life stages of head lice exhibit distinct physical and behavioral traits, enabling differentiation through visual inspection. Below are the key identifiers for each stage, including size, color, and movement patterns.
    Stage 1: Nit (Egg)
    • Size: 0.6–0.8mm (length), attached to the hair shaft within 6mm of the scalp.
      Freshly laid nits are oval, glossy, and white to light yellow, with a distinct operculum (a small lid) at one end.
    • Color shift: Older nits (post-hatching) darken to grayish-brown and develop cracks along the operculum.
    • Attachment: Secured with a glue-like substance, making removal difficult without mechanical tools (e.g., nit comb).
    Stage 2: Nymph (Immature Louse)
    • Size: 1–2mm upon hatching, growing to ~2.5mm after 9–12 days.
      Nymphs are pale gray to translucent, resembling miniature adults but with less pronounced body segmentation.
    • Color progression: Darken to tan or grayish-brown as they mature, correlating with increased chitin deposition.
    • Behavioral shifts:
    • Move slower than adults due to underdeveloped leg musculature.
    • Prefer scalp regions with higher blood flow (e.g., behind ears, nape of the neck).
    • Begin feeding immediately but require ~9 days to reach reproductive maturity.
    Stage 3: Adult Louse
    • Size: 2–4mm (females larger than males), with a flattened, oval body.
      Adults are darker (grayish-brown to black) and exhibit six legs with claws for gripping hair shafts.
    • Color variations:
    • Freshly molted adults may appear lighter before darkening.
    • Blood-fed lice turn reddish-brown due to hemoglobin ingestion.
    • Behavioral traits:
    • Highly mobile, capable of crawling up to 23cm per minute.
    • Females lay 5–10 eggs daily, preferring hair shafts near the scalp.
    • Lifespan: ~30 days (shorter without human blood meals).

    Differentiating First-Generation Nits from Older Eggs

    First-generation nits (freshly laid) and older nits exhibit measurable differences in appearance, aiding in the assessment of infestation recency and treatment efficacy.
    Characteristic First-Generation Nits (0–7 days) Older Nits (>10 days)
    Shape and Surface Oval, smooth, and highly reflective (glossy). Operculum intact. Irregular, dull, or cracked. Operculum may be missing or fragmented.
    Color White to pale yellow (due to chorion transparency). Grayish-brown to dark brown (indicating desiccation).
    Attachment Strength Firmly adhered; requires force to remove. Weaker adhesion; may detach with gentle pulling.
    Location on Hair Shaft Closer to the scalp (<6mm), as eggs are laid near blood supply. Further from the scalp (>6mm), as hair grows outward.
    Practical application:
    First-generation nits indicate active infestation, while older nits suggest prior or untreated cases. Monitoring nit clusters for hatched shells (empty opercula) helps track the progression of nymph emergence and guides retreatment intervals.

    Mastering the visual identification of lice and nits transforms a daunting task into a systematic process rooted in observable science. From the microscopic texture of a lice’s exoskeleton to the developmental stages of nits—glossy and intact to cracked and empty—each detail serves as a diagnostic clue. By leveraging tools like fine-tooth combs, magnifiers, and controlled lighting, individuals can distinguish parasites from innocuous debris with confidence. The life cycle progression, from nit to nymph to adult, further refines detection accuracy, ensuring interventions target active infestations rather than residual debris. Armed with this knowledge, readers can approach lice identification methodically, reducing misdiagnoses and fostering proactive pest management.

    FAQ

    What do lice and nits look like when they’re in someone’s hair?

    Lice are tiny (1–3mm), grayish-white to brownish, and move quickly. Nits are oval, yellowish-white eggs (0.8mm) stuck firmly to hair shafts near the scalp, often within 6mm of the root.

    How do lice and nits appear when you see them on a comb?

    Lice look like tiny, translucent or grayish insects (1–3mm), while nits appear as small, oval specks (0.8mm) that may detach but often remain stuck to hair fragments.

    What do lice and nits look like in blonde hair?

    Lice in blonde hair may appear darker (tan or brown) against lighter strands, while nits are harder to spot due to the hair color—use a bright light or lice comb to check for tiny white specks near the scalp.

    What do lice and eggs look like compared to each other?

    Lice are live insects (1–3mm) that crawl, while eggs (nits) are oval, yellow-white, and attached to hair shafts. Nits are about 0.8mm and don’t move, unlike adult lice.

    What do lice and eggs look like when they’re in hair?

    Lice are small, flat, and grayish-brown, moving along the hair shaft. Eggs (nits) are oval, white or tan, and glued to the base of hairs, often near the scalp.

    How can I tell what head lice and nits look like?

    Head lice are tiny (1–3mm), grayish-white, and move. Nits are oval eggs (0.8mm) stuck to hair shafts, usually within 6mm of the scalp, and may appear yellowish-white.