Can You See Head Lice With a Black Light?
Head lice are hard to spot in bright light, so you may need to examine a head carefully. You can also use a magnifying glass, which will make the job easier. Part your hair all the way to the scalp, and look for any moving bugs or nits. The best way to find lice is to examine the entire scalp, including the ears and nape of the neck. You will want to treat any head that appears to have lice or nits, even if you only find one or two.
In addition to using a black light, you can use natural light to check for lice. It is free, and it can be found outdoors. It can be a great option, especially during warm weather. Moreover, if you’re inside, bright windows provide a natural light source.
If you suspect your child has head lice, you may also use a woods lamp examination to detect the infestation. This method is easy and non-invasive, and it is a great way to find head lice and nits. It also can identify bacterial and fungal infections that are common in human hair. If you suspect your child has head lice, be sure to treat the affected area as soon as possible. You may have to do a second treatment if your child has extra long hair. You should not wash the hair for a day or two after you treat it. You should also wear clean clothing for this period.
Head lice are highly contagious. The most noticeable symptom of an infestation is intense scalp itching. A female head louse will lay its eggs close to the scalp and attach them to the hair shafts within a quarter of an inch (5 millimeters) from the scalp. In 8 to 10 days, these eggs will hatch. The remaining adult head lice will feed off the eggs.