How Long Do Head Lice Last?

Head lice are tiny, wingless insects that live in human hair. They have been a source of trouble for humans for thousands of years. The life cycle of a head lice infestation lasts approximately 35 days. Lice lay eggs, known as nits, which hatch into tiny insects called nymphs. The nymphs then mature into adult lice. At that time, lice will start hatching more eggs, and the cycle will continue.

An adult female louse will lay at least five to six eggs a day. These eggs are laid in the nit shell near the scalp. The eggs hatch and the nymphs molt several times over the next nine to fifteen days. However, adult female louse eggs will not hatch if the temperature is below the scalp temperature.

The first step in getting rid of head lice is to wash out their eggs and larvae. A hot water bath of 130 degrees Fahrenheit is effective in killing the lice and their eggs. If you are not able to wash out the nits, you can place them in the freezer overnight. Make sure you check bobby pins and combs daily for lice and other infestation-causing debris.

If you suspect you have head lice, call your physician right away. The physician can advise you on how to get rid of your infestation. In addition to examining your head, he or she can recommend a treatment. If treatment is successful, your chances of a full recovery are good. As long as the infestation is handled properly, head lice do not transmit other infections or cause symptoms.