Now that the kids are back in school, you’ve probably found yourself worrying once or twice about the possibility of your child having lice. This is a common concern among parents, especially during the school year when kids are spending more time together in close quarters.

The good news is that while lice can be tricky to spot, they are visible to the naked eye. However, don’t expect to simply notice one of these pests climbing on your child’s head while watching TV one night. You need to know what to look for and where.

What Do Head Lice Actually Look Like? 

Head lice are very small insects, but they’re not invisible. An adult louse is about the size of a sesame seed, with six legs and a grayish-white or light brown body. Because they’re quick crawlers, it can be difficult to catch them in the act. They move fast across the scalp and hair shafts, often darting out of sight when the hair is parted. Lice do not jump or fly. They live their entire lives on the human head, feeding on tiny amounts of blood to survive.

What often confuses parents is that lice can change slightly in color depending on the hair they live in. On darker hair, they may look a bit darker, while on lighter hair they can appear paler, making them blend in even more. This is a protective feature that allows lice to stay protected from predators. 

Nits, or lice eggs, are usually even trickier to spot. They are oval-shaped and very small, about the size of a pinhead, and they range in color from yellowish to white. Nits are glued firmly to the hair shaft, typically within a quarter inch of the scalp where it’s warm enough for them to hatch. Unlike dandruff, dust, or hair spray residue, nits won’t flake off when brushed. This is why a careful inspection under bright light is essential for telling the difference.

While spotting lice can feel intimidating at first, knowing exactly what they look like helps parents feel more confident during checks. With patience and the right tools, they can be identified and treated successfully.

Where and How to Check 

When checking for head lice, it helps to know where these tiny pests like to hide. Lice prefer warm, protected areas of the scalp, which is why they are often first found near the nape of the neck, behind the ears, and along the hairline. These spots provide the ideal environment for both lice and their eggs, making them the best places to start your inspection.

The process works best when you section the hair into small parts so you can look closely at the scalp and the base of the hair shafts. Using a fine-toothed lice comb can make a big difference, as it helps you catch both adult lice and nits that cling stubbornly to the hair. Good lighting is essential, so pick a spot near a window or a strong lamp to make spotting these tiny insects easier. Some parents even find it helpful to use a magnifying glass for extra clarity.

Take your time during the check, as lice move quickly and eggs can be very small. If you see something but aren’t sure what it is, try brushing it with your fingers. If it flicks away, it’s likely dandruff or lint. If it stays firmly attached to the hair, it may be a nit. Careful, patient checking gives you the best chance of catching an infestation early, before it spreads further.

Don’t Panic! You’re Not Alone 

Finding out your child has head lice can feel overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that this is a very common issue and nothing to be ashamed of. Millions of families deal with head lice every year, and it happens in all kinds of households, schools, and communities. Lice don’t discriminate; they affect children from every background, and they have nothing to do with hygiene or cleanliness. In fact, lice actually prefer clean hair because it’s easier for them to cling to.

While it’s normal to feel stressed or even embarrassed, try to keep in mind that head lice are completely manageable. With the right tools and support, families are usually able to take care of an infestation, and often within days. Acting quickly, staying calm, and following through with the right solution is what makes the difference.

At My Hair Helpers, we remind parents that you don’t have to face lice alone. Our team has years of experience helping families get through this challenge with head lice products made from natural ingredients. Beyond our solutions, we provide reassurance and guidance so you can feel confident every step of the way. Head lice may be a nuisance, but they’re never a reason to panic. 

My Hair Helpers has 6 convenient locations to serve your needs: Thousand Oaks, Lawndale, Riverside, Downey, Pasadena, and our new lice salon in Costa Mesa, opening in August 2025. Book your appointment today! You can also purchase our products directly from our website at myhairhelpersnaturalheadliceproducts.com.