Can Head Lice Be White?

Head lice are small, gray-colored bugs that live on your head. These lice will leave tiny white specks, or “nits,” attached to hair close to the scalp. They are most easily found at the hairline or behind the ears. The best way to identify whether you have lice is by combing your hair. The nits are about 1/16 of an inch (2 mm) long.

Head lice are most common among children but can affect adults. The disease usually begins with intense itching. While head lice are not contagious, the itch may be very uncomfortable. Fortunately, the infection is not life-threatening and can be treated at home. If the infestation is severe, call 911 or seek medical attention.

Adult head lice are about the size of a sesame seed and are tan to gray-white. They feed on blood and can live for 30 days on a person’s head. They die after one to two days when the hair falls out. A female head lice can lay as many as six eggs per day.

Head lice are easy to spread, especially in schools. Parents should inspect their children at home and school regularly to check for head lice. The earlier the infestation is detected, the easier it will be to treat it. Keeping personal items away from the hair is important as well.

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