What Do Head Lice Look Like?
Adult lice are usually:
- About the size of a sesame seed
- Tan, gray, or brown in color
- Fast-moving and difficult to spot
- Found close to the scalp
Their eggs, called nits, are even smaller and often appear as tiny white or yellowish dots attached firmly to hair shafts.
Many parents mistake nits for dandruff, but unlike dandruff, nits cannot be easily brushed away.
Common Signs of a Lice Infestation
Not every child experiences symptoms immediately. However, some common signs include:
Persistent Itching
The most common symptom is itching, especially behind the ears and near the back of the neck.
This occurs because the scalp reacts to the saliva of the lice.
Tickling Sensation
Some children describe a feeling that something is moving through their hair.
Difficulty Sleeping
Head lice tend to be more active in the dark, which can sometimes make children uncomfortable at night.
