A nit, which is a head louse egg, appears as a tiny, oval-shaped dot that can be yellow, tan, or brown in color and is firmly attached to a hair shaft close to the scalp.
Key Characteristics of Nits
Understanding what nits look like is crucial for identifying a head lice infestation. They have distinct features that differentiate them from other common hair debris like dandruff.
- Size and Shape: Nits are very small, often described as no larger than a tiny speck or a grain of sand. They have a distinct oval or teardrop shape.
- Color: Before hatching, nits typically appear as tiny dots that can be yellow, tan, or light brown. Once the louse has hatched, the empty nit casing remains on the hair shaft and often looks whitish or clear.
- Location: Lice lay their eggs on individual hair shafts, usually very close to the scalp (within about a quarter-inch). This proximity to the scalp provides the perfect warm temperature needed for the nits to develop and hatch. As the hair grows, the nit moves further away from the scalp.
- Attachment: One of the most defining characteristics of a nit is how securely it is attached to the hair shaft. Nits are cemented to the hair with a strong, waterproof glue-like substance. This means they will not fall off or be easily removed by brushing, shaking the hair, or even washing.
Nits vs. Dandruff: A Quick Comparison
Nits are often confused with dandruff or dry skin flakes, but there are key differences that help in accurate identification.
| Feature | Nit (Head Louse Egg) | Dandruff |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Tiny, oval, yellow, tan, or brown dot | Irregular flakes, typically white |
| Attachment | Firmly glued to hair shaft | Loosely sits on scalp/hair, flakes off |
| Movement | Cannot be brushed or shaken off | Easily removed by brushing or shaking |
| Location | Close to the scalp on hair strands | Can be throughout hair and on scalp |
Practical Identification Tips
When inspecting for nits, good lighting is essential. A magnifying glass can also be very helpful due to their tiny size. The most reliable way to confirm a nit is by attempting to slide it off the hair strand. If it doesn't budge easily or requires significant effort to remove, it is likely a nit. In contrast, dandruff will simply flake away.
