When someone in the home complains of an itchy scalp, it’s normal to think it might be head lice. For most people, the most common symptom of head lice is itching. And, if you perform a head lice check and see any type of residue on the head, you might suspect head lice! And why wouldn't you? All the signs point in one direction, right?

Well, not exactly. First of all, there are other signs of head lice besides itching, such as a tickling sensation in the hair, trouble sleeping, irritability, and sores on the neck, scalp, and shoulders. Second, other things can be mistaken for head lice. This happens quite often. 

The easiest way to tell if someone has head lice is by doing a head lice check. You can do this at home, or you can book a virtual head lice check with a lice expert. If lice are identified, you’ll likely need a kid-safe lice treatment.

Here are some of the most common things that can be confused with head lice. By using a flashlight, magnifying glass, and stainless steel lice comb, you can rule out these other causes. 

Dandruff 

Contact Dermatitis 

Scabies 

Ringworm 

Scalp Psoriasis 

Atopic Dermatitis 

As you can see, many different things can mimic the appearance and symptoms of head lice. This is why it’s important to know how to do head lice checks at home. And, if it turns out that you or your child has lice, you can treat them effectively with lice products from My Hair Helpers!