A "nit" in hair refers to the empty egg casing of a head louse that remains attached to the hair shaft after the louse has hatched.
Nits are small, oval-shaped, and typically whitish or yellowish in color. They are firmly glued to the hair close to the scalp, which provides the warmth needed for incubation. Because they are glued to the hair, they don't easily brush or wash out like dandruff or other debris.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
- What they are: Empty eggshells of head lice.
- Appearance: Small, oval, and whitish or yellowish.
- Location: Firmly attached to the hair shaft, close to the scalp.
- Why they are important: Nits indicate a head lice infestation, even if the lice themselves are not immediately visible.
- Difference from Dandruff: Nits are glued to the hair, while dandruff flakes are loose and easily removed.
It's important to distinguish nits from live lice, which are small, crawling insects. While nits indicate a past or present lice infestation, finding live lice confirms an active infestation that requires treatment. Regular combing and inspection can help identify nits and allow for early intervention to prevent the spread of head lice.
