Head lice eggs, commonly known as nits, are a clear sign of a head lice infestation. These tiny, parasitic insects attach their eggs firmly to hair strands, indicating a potential infestation. Understanding their appearance is crucial for addressing a potential infestation.
Physical Characteristics
Lice eggs are small, often compared to a grain of sand. They are oval, teardrop-shaped, and typically white, yellowish, or tan before hatching. Live nits are darker and may appear translucent.
Nits are securely cemented to the hair shaft, usually at an angle, by a strong, glue-like substance. This firm attachment is a key distinguishing feature, as nits do not easily flake off or move when touched or brushed. Once a nit hatches, the remaining eggshell becomes lighter, appearing white or clear, and remains stuck to the hair.
Common Locations
Lice lay eggs in specific areas of the head where warmth and proximity to the scalp are optimal for incubation. Nits are most frequently found within 1/4 to 1/2 inch (0.6 to 1.2 cm) of the scalp. This close proximity helps ensure the eggs stay warm, necessary for hatching.
The most common areas to locate nits include the hair behind the ears and at the nape of the neck. While adult lice move quickly and are harder to spot, their eggs remain stationary, making these preferred sites crucial for inspection. Regularly checking these warmer regions of the scalp aids in early detection.
Distinguishing from Look-Alikes
Many common hair conditions are mistaken for lice eggs, making accurate identification important. Dandruff and dry skin flakes are often confused with nits, but unlike nits, they are not firmly attached to the hair shaft and are easily brushed away. Hairspray residue also resembles nits, but it washes out or flakes off with combing, whereas nits remain cemented to the hair.
Hair casts, small, cylindrical keratinous sleeves that surround the hair shaft, can also be mistaken for nits. Hair casts are typically longer and can slide along the hair strand, while nits are fixed in place. Dirt or sand particles may also appear in the hair, but these are loose, irregular, easily removed, and lack the oval appearance and firm attachment of a nit. A fine-toothed comb and good lighting help differentiate these look-alikes from actual lice eggs.
Immediate Next Steps
Upon identifying what appear to be lice eggs, the next step is confirming an active infestation. While nits suggest exposure, some may be empty casings or non-viable. Consult a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or school nurse, for a definitive diagnosis.
Once confirmed, inform close contacts like family, friends, or school staff to prevent further spread. Understanding that treatment is required is crucial, but specific product recommendations or detailed treatment plans are discussed with the healthcare provider. The primary focus after identification is to confirm the diagnosis and prepare for necessary actions.