Head Lice Facts

Head lice are a common problem throughout the World. They are highly contagious and are easily picked up on contact with others that are infested or their personal belongings.

Head Lice

  • Are small, flat insects about 2–3mm long (the size of a sesame seed)
  • Live on the human scalp
  • Breed all year round
  • Are normally grey/brown in colour
  • Cannot jump, fly or swim
  • Do not carry disease
  • Remain on the head after swimming or showering

What To Look For

For school age children check for head lice once a week. You will not need to do this if you are using Nit-Enz Organic Shampoo twice a week, as recommended.

Check the whole scalp for insects and their eggs, especially:

  • Around the hair line and at the back of the neck
  • Behind the ears
  • On the crown of the head

Scratch marks or a rash can be a sign that head lice are present. Head lice may cause itching, but do not usually cause disease. Not all children complain of an itchy head. Occasionally scalp infections requiring treatment may develop.

Life Cycle

Female lice lay about 7 – 10 eggs each night, close to the scalp. Eggs are glued firmly onto the hair shaft, no more than 1cm from the scalp. They are normally a grey/brown colour and are difficult to see (prior to shampooing with Nit-Enz). Eggs hatch every 7 – 10 days and a louse can live for 40 days.