Lice are small, parasitic insects that can infest the human scalp, body, or pubic area. Adult lice are about the size of a sesame seed and are typically grayish-white or tan in color.
Detailed Appearance of Lice:
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Size: Adult lice are about 2-3 mm long (roughly the size of a sesame seed). Nymphs (young lice) are smaller.
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Color: Adult lice are usually grayish-white or tan. However, they can appear darker after feeding on blood.
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Shape: Lice have a flat, elongated body shape.
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Legs: They have six legs, each with a claw that allows them to grasp onto hair shafts.
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Nits (Eggs): Lice eggs, called nits, are small, oval-shaped, and yellowish-white. They are firmly attached to hair shafts near the scalp. Nits are often mistaken for dandruff, but unlike dandruff, they cannot be easily brushed off.
Distinguishing Lice from Other Things:
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Dandruff: Dandruff flakes are usually larger, white, and easily brushed off. Nits are smaller and firmly attached to the hair.
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Hair casts: Hair casts are white or clear, tube-like structures that encircle the hair shaft. They are generally longer than nits and move freely along the hair.
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Dirt or debris: Lice move, whereas dirt or debris will remain stationary on the scalp or hair.
Life Cycle:
- Nymphs hatch from nits and go through several stages before becoming adults. This takes about 1-2 weeks. Adult lice can live for about 30 days. Lice feed on blood several times a day and can only survive for 1-2 days off of a host.
