What should you know about white nits in hair?

Nits are lice eggs attached to individual hairs, often close to the scalp where warmth supports their development. They tend to stay in place when you slide a finger along the hair. Dandruff and styling residue usually brush or shake away more easily. An itchy scalp or itching that is worse at night can occur with head lice, although some people have little irritation at first. White material farther down the hair shaft may be an empty egg case or a non-lice flake, so appearance alone cannot confirm the cause.

Use bright light and separate the hair into small sections. Check close to the scalp, especially behind the ears and at the nape. A fine-toothed lice comb on damp, conditioned hair can help remove suspected lice and eggs. Do not share combs, brushes, hats, pillows, or hair accessories while checking. If live lice are found, a clinician or pharmacist can guide a suitable head-lice treatment and explain how to repeat or combine measures safely. Wash or isolate recently used hair items according to local treatment advice rather than applying household chemicals to the scalp.

Arrange a GP consultation if you cannot tell whether the specks are nits, if itching continues after treatment, or if scalp scratching has caused sores, crusting, or signs of infection. Seek prompt medical advice for spreading redness, marked tenderness, pus, fever, or a child who is unusually unwell. A clinician can inspect the scalp and distinguish lice from eczema, irritation, or another scalp problem.

Ask whether the material is attached to the hair or simply resting on it, whether live lice are present, which treatment is suitable for the person's age, and how household contacts should be checked.