What Color Is Lice?
Head lice are small, wingless insects that live on the scalp and feed on human blood. They are a common problem amongst school-aged children, and can quickly spread through contact and shared items.
Appearance of Lice
Adult lice are the size of sesame seeds and have six legs. They range in color from white to dark brown and have a thick, flattened body. Since they lack wings, they cannot fly or jump but can crawl very quickly.
Eggs
Lice lay eggs, or nits, on the hair shaft. Nits are firmly attached to the hair and are oval-shaped. There is a clear, sticky substance on the egg that helps it stay on the hair shaft. The eggs are white when first laid but turn yellow or tan as they mature.
Lice Infestations
If someone has a lice infestation, it is important to identify and treat it as soon as possible. Lice can quickly spread to other people, so it is important to take action to prevent it from spreading. Some of the signs of lice infestations include intense itching and red bumps on the scalp.
Treating Lice
Once lice have been identified, there are a few treatments that can be used to get rid of them. These include over-the-counter products, prescription medications, and home remedies. It is important to follow the directions carefully and to treat everyone in the home who has been exposed to lice.