So what are headlice?


Head lice are tiny insects that live on the scalp and feed on small amounts of blood. Early identification is important because they spread quickly, cause itching and discomfort, and are easier to treat before they multiply and spread. They can lay up to 10 eggs per day, making it difficult to clear the infestation.

The eggs are a teardrop shape that stick to hair near the root. While the lice are small insects up to 3mm long.


Illustration of a lice comb and lice on wooden slats with eggs.

What to do if you get them

Using a nit comb and combing through wet hair can help identify lice or eggs that may be lurking.

Don't panic if you have found them, headlice are very common in young children and their families.

Do not share hair accessories, tools (such as combs), bedding or towels.

Follow these easy steps below to treat them (Note: it's recommended that the whole household be treated at the same time).

How to treat

  • Step 1

    Apply headlice treatment, this can be in the form of a leave-in spray or shampoo.

  • Step 2

    After washing out treatment, using a nit comb on wet hair, comb through the hair one section at a time. After each single comb of the hair, remove lice and eggs found from the comb using our Instant Nit Comb Cleaner. This ensures you are not putting the removed infestation back into the hair.

  • Step 3

    Repeat wet combing on days 1, 5, 9 and 13 to completely remove the infestation and possible newly hatched eggs.

    For more information on headlice, click the link below to the NHS website.

More information