What are Nits & What do They Look Like?

Head lice are hard to see and even harder to deal with, but what do you do when someone starts to ask you about nits and getting rid of them? What even are nits and why are they such a big deal?

What Are Nits?

Lice egg or nit on hair shaft up close

Nits are lice eggs and it’s important to get rid of them so that the head lice don’t just come back when all the new eggs hatch. Female lice can lay 3 to 10 eggs a day, leaving behind a lot of nits. When checking for an infestation it’s more common to see the nits than the head lice crawling around, but it is important to remember the nits couldn’t have gotten there without the adult lice. As lice continue to lay more eggs, and eggs continue to hatch, the infestation worsens and the chance of spreading lice likens. It’s important when treating lice to be sure your treatment works for both adult lice and nits.

What Do Nits Look Like?

Close-up view of a louse egg on hair shaft

Nits look like small, symmetrical ovals that head lice attach to close to the scalp. Often they are white or light in color and attach to the hair on a slight angle. These pesky little guys are hard to remove and will feel almost glued to the hair. Unlike dandruff or other similarly colored flecks, they will not be easily brushed out. Adult lice lay nits close to the scalp where the temperature is perfect for keeping the eggs warm until hatching. This close proximity also makes it hard to remove nits even by cutting or shaving hair. If you think you have nits but aren’t sure feel free to snap a photo to send to us or bring to ask our professionals.

How To Treat Nits?

Not all lice treatments are created equal. Some treatments only treat adult lice and require a second treatment in hopes of catching the nits when they hatch. This won’t work and the process can continue on. Others use harsh chemicals, toxic poisons or useless fragrances or face cleansers, vinegar, olive oil, none of which are effective.  Many are dangerous and not safe to safe for the user either. At Lice Clinics 805, we use an innovative technique that uses no toxins or pesticides and kills both head lice and nits the first time! Our signature treatment uses a special blend of minerals and oils to dehydrate lice and nits and safely rid you of all lice guaranteed!

Nits can cause all sorts of problems but Lice Clinics 805 is here to help you get back to your day!

If you have any questions or need a head lice removal treatment, don’t hesitate to contact us. At Lice Clinics 805, which proudly serves Ventura, Santa Barbara, Thousand Oaks, Los Angeles and surrounding areas in California, we are here to help! Our removal process guarantees to remove head lice in 1 easy and safe treatment. Let us help your kids and family members get back to the things they enjoy. Call us today to schedule an appointment at 805-334-0951 x1!