Discovering lice on your child can be alarming, especially when you are not sure what to look for. As NYC's leading lice removal specialists, we have checked thousands of children across all five boroughs and know exactly what parents need to look for during a home inspection.
The most common mistake NYC parents make is checking dry hair under normal lighting. Lice are small, fast-moving insects that blend with hair color. A proper check requires a fine-toothed lice comb (metal nit combs work best), good lighting, and wet or conditioned hair that slows lice movement.
Start by sectioning the hair and working from the scalp outward. Focus on the areas behind the ears, along the neckline, and at the crown of the head. These warm spots are where lice prefer to lay eggs (nits). Nits are tiny, oval-shaped, and cemented to the hair shaft close to the scalp. They do not flake off like dandruff does.
In NYC apartments, lighting can be tricky. We recommend using a bright desk lamp or even your phone flashlight held at an angle to the scalp. The light helps you spot the translucent nits that cling to hair strands. Check every section methodically rather than randomly parting hair.
Wipe the comb on a white paper towel after each pass. Live lice will appear as small, sesame-seed-sized brown or gray insects. Nits that are more than a quarter inch from the scalp are likely already hatched and are less concerning than those close to the scalp.
If you find evidence of lice, do not panic. Lice are not a sign of poor hygiene and are extremely common among school-age children in NYC. The close quarters of subway rides, after-school programs, and playdates all contribute to transmission.
Home checks catch about 40% of infestations. Professional checks using specialized tools and trained expertise detect 99% of cases, including early-stage infestations that home inspections typically miss. If you suspect lice but cannot confirm, a professional check from our team provides certainty and peace of mind.
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