Finding head lice early is the most effective way to manage and eliminate an infestation. Self-inspection is challenging because the insects are small and move quickly, but it is possible with the correct tools and technique. This guide provides a focused method to help you detect the presence of lice or their eggs, known as nits, on your own head. A successful self-check involves understanding the initial symptoms and executing a systematic wet-combing procedure.
Recognizing Initial Signs of Infestation
Recognizing physical symptoms is the starting point for self-checking. The most common indicator is persistent itching, which is an allergic reaction to the louse’s saliva. This irritation is frequently concentrated behind the ears and at the nape of the neck. Some people also describe a feeling of something crawling or tickling on their scalp, caused by adult lice moving through the hair. Constant scratching can lead to small, red bumps or sores on the scalp, neck, or shoulders, which may become infected.
Essential Tools and Preparation for Inspection
A successful self-check requires the right equipment. The most important tool is a fine-toothed metal nit comb, which has teeth spaced less than 0.3 millimeters apart to effectively trap lice and eggs. Avoid plastic combs, as their teeth are too flexible and widely spaced. You will also need a strong light source, such as a bright lamp or natural sunlight, and a large mirror paired with a hand mirror to check the back of your head. Liberal amounts of hair conditioner or detangler are necessary to slow down the lice and make the hair slippery, which is why this method is called “wet combing.” Finally, gather hair clips to manage sections and a white paper towel or tissue to wipe the comb after each pass.
Step-by-Step Self-Inspection Method
The systematic wet combing technique is the most reliable method for self-diagnosis. Begin by generously applying conditioner to your hair, ensuring it covers the entire scalp and all strands from root to tip. The conditioner temporarily stuns the lice and helps detangle the hair, allowing the fine-toothed comb to glide smoothly.
Next, use a wide-toothed comb to remove tangles, then divide your hair into small, manageable sections using clips. Sections should be no wider than the nit comb itself to ensure complete coverage. Place the fine-toothed nit comb flat against your scalp, ensuring the teeth slot into the hair at the roots and lightly touch the skin.
Draw the comb slowly and firmly from the scalp all the way to the ends of the hair. After each stroke, immediately wipe the comb onto the white paper towel or tissue and closely examine the residue for movement or specks. Comb each section at least five times, working systematically across your entire head, paying extra attention to the areas behind the ears and the back of the neck.
Identifying What You Find
After completing the combing, confirm whether the specks found are evidence of an infestation. Adult lice are small, six-legged insects, roughly the size of a sesame seed, ranging in color from grayish-white to reddish-brown. Live lice will often be seen moving, especially when scraped onto a white surface.
Nits, the lice eggs, are tiny, oval-shaped, and typically appear yellow, white, or tan. The distinguishing feature is their attachment: nits are firmly glued to the hair shaft, usually within a quarter-inch of the scalp, and cannot be easily brushed or flaked off. In contrast, common debris like dandruff consists of irregular flakes that readily slide off the hair strand. If the specks are firmly cemented to the hair, they are very likely nits, confirming an infestation.