Many people feel itchy on their scalp and immediately panic, wondering, what does lice look like and how can I identify it correctly. Head lice are tiny parasitic insects that live on the human scalp and survive by feeding on blood. They spread easily through close contact, especially among school children, but adults can get them too.
Because lice are very small and move quickly, most people confuse them with dandruff, dirt, or skin flakes. This complete guide explains exactly what lice look like at every stage so you can identify them early and treat the problem properly.
What Does Lice Look Like?
Adult head lice are extremely small insects. They are about the size of a sesame seed. Their bodies are flat and oval-shaped, which allows them to cling tightly to hair strands.
Common characteristics of adult lice include:
• Size between 2 to 3 millimeters
• Six tiny legs with hook-like claws
• Body color ranges from tan to grayish white
• After feeding on blood, their body may appear reddish or darker
Lice do not fly or jump. They crawl very fast and hide near the scalp, especially behind the ears and at the back of the neck.
What Do Lice Eggs Look Like?
Lice eggs are called nits. They are much easier to spot than adult lice because they stick firmly to the hair shaft.
Nits look like:
• Very small oval-shaped dots
• Yellowish, white, or brown in color
• Attached close to the scalp
• Often confused with dandruff but they do not fall off easily
If the nit is more than half an inch away from the scalp, it is usually an empty shell from an old infestation.
What Do Baby Lice Look Like?
Baby lice are called nymphs. They hatch from eggs and look like tiny versions of adult lice.
Nymph appearance:
• Size similar to a pinhead
• Translucent or light brown color
• Start feeding on blood immediately
• Grow into adults within 7 to 10 days
Even though nymphs are smaller, they are just as irritating and can multiply quickly.
Where Do You Find Lice on the Head?
Lice prefer warm areas with plenty of blood supply. The most common places to find lice are:
• Behind the ears
• At the nape of the neck
• Along the hairline
• Under thick hair sections
Checking these areas carefully increases your chance of finding lice early.
Lice vs Dandruff
Many people mistake dandruff for lice eggs. Here is how to tell the difference:
| Lice Nits | Dandruff |
|---|---|
| Firmly attached to hair | Falls easily when touched |
| Oval and smooth | Irregular flaky shape |
| Found close to scalp | Found anywhere on hair |
Signs That You Have Lice
If you are unsure what lice look like, these symptoms can help:
• Constant itching
• Tickling feeling on scalp
• Red bumps or sores from scratching
• Trouble sleeping because lice are more active at night
How to Check for Lice Properly
Use a bright light and a fine-toothed lice comb.
Step by step:
- Divide hair into small sections
- Comb slowly from scalp to ends
- Wipe the comb on a white tissue after each pass
- Look for tiny moving insects or oval-shaped eggs
Why Early Identification Matters
If lice are not treated quickly, they multiply fast. One female louse can lay up to 6 eggs per day, leading to a full infestation within two weeks. Early detection saves time, money, and stress.
FAQs
What does lice look like on black hair
Lice appear gray or tan and are easier to see moving on dark hair.
Can lice be seen with the naked eye
Yes, but they are very small and move quickly, so careful inspection is needed.
What do lice look like on the scalp
They appear as tiny crawling insects close to the scalp, especially behind ears.
What color are lice eggs
They are yellowish white or light brown.
Conclusion
Now you know exactly what does lice look like at every life stage. Adult lice are tiny crawling insects, nymphs are even smaller, and nits are oval eggs stuck firmly to hair. By learning how to identify lice early, you can take action quickly and prevent a serious infestation.
