What Do Lice Eggs Look Like in Hair?

One of the most confusing parts of checking for head lice isn't finding an insect. It's finding a tiny speck attached to a strand of hair and wondering:

Is that a lice egg? Lice eggs are commonly called nits. They are very small and are attached to individual hair shafts.

What color are lice eggs?

Their appearance can vary. Depending on their developmental stage and other factors, they may appear whitish, yellowish, tan or brown. Because they're so small, lighting can also dramatically change what you think you're seeing.

Where should you look?

Lice lay their eggs on hair shafts, often close to the scalp. When checking, use good lighting and work through small sections of hair rather than looking only at the surface. Pay particular attention behind the ears and around the nape of the neck.

Lice eggs or dandruff?

This is where many people become confused. Dandruff tends to sit loosely on the scalp or hair and may move relatively easily. Nits are attached to the hair shaft and generally don't simply brush away. But there are plenty of other things such as: product buildup, lint, dried skin and debris, that can complicate a visual check.

When you can't tell

If you've ever stared at one tiny spot in someone's hair for several minutes and still weren't sure, you're not alone.

It's exactly the kind of uncertainty Comb & Calm was designed to address. See something you're unsure about? Check with Comb & Calm.