How Do I Know If My Child Actually Has Head Lice?

If your child has been scratching their head nonstop, you might be wondering if it’s really lice or just a dry scalp. It’s a common concern, especially during Georgia lice season, after school outbreaks, or weekend playdates. This head lice guide will help you know exactly what to look for and what steps to take next.

1. Check for the Classic Signs of Lice

Head lice leave behind some telltale symptoms. Look out for:

• Frequent itching, especially behind the ears and at the back of the neck

• Red bumps or irritation from scratching

• A crawling feeling on the scalp some kids describe it as “something moving”

These signs often lead to increased Atlanta lice questions among parents, especially during back to school lice checks.

2. Look for Nits (Lice Eggs)

Nits are tiny oval-shaped eggs firmly attached to the hair shaft. They are:

• Yellow, tan, or white

• Hard to remove (they don’t brush off like dandruff)

• Common around the ears or nape of the neck

If you find specks that don’t flake away, it’s likely nits. Understanding the lice life cycle helps nits hatch in about 7–10 days and must be removed to prevent reinfestation.

3. Use a Fine-Toothed Comb Under Good Light

The easiest way to confirm lice is a wet combing test:

• Dampen the hair

• Comb section by section with a lice comb

• Wipe the comb on a white towel after each pass

If you spot moving insects (tan or gray, sesame-seed sized), your child has lice. In some cases, families encounter super lice Georgia or resistant lice Georgia, which don’t respond well to certain drugstore treatments.

4. Rule Out Other Causes

Not every itch means lice. Conditions that mimic lice include:

• Dandruff

• Product buildup

• Eczema

• Dry scalp from weather changes

If you’re unsure, you can get a second opinion from a professional lice technician. Many parents also search Atlanta lice research before making a decision.

What Causes Head Lice, and What Is the Treatment?

Head lice are tiny wingless insects that live close to the scalp and feed on small amounts of blood. They spread mainly through head-to-head contact, especially among school-aged children. They do not jump or fly.

Sharing brushes, hats, or pillows can also transmit lice, which is why many schools now include lice prevention schools education in their health guidelines.

Treatment Options

1. Over-the-counter lice treatments
OTC products like Nix and Rid are common, but results vary especially with super lice Georgia. Parents often look for a Nix vs Rid comparison to decide which one might work best.

2. Professional lice removal services
Chemical-free, highly thorough, and often completed in one visit. These services are especially helpful when dealing with resistant strains or repeat cases.

Families also frequently ask about lice treatment cost Atlanta, which varies depending on the provider.

5. Take Quick Action

The faster you treat lice, the easier it is to manage. Professional mobile lice treatment Atlanta is a convenient option for busy parents, allowing in-home removal without stress or mess.

Local services also cover surrounding areas, including:

• Alpharetta lice treatment

• Buckhead lice removal

Many companies provide a lice checklist 2025 so families know exactly what to do before, during, and after treatment.

Lice Prevention Tips for Parents

Reduce your child’s risk of catching lice:

• Encourage kids to avoid head-to-head contact

• Don’t share brushes, hats, helmets, or pillows

• Tie long hair in braids or buns

• Do regular checks during Georgia lice season

• Perform a back to school lice check at the start of each school year

These simple lice prevention tips can dramatically reduce future outbreaks.

Final Thoughts

Catching lice early makes all the difference. A careful scalp check and comb-through can confirm whether your child has lice or not. If you’re still unsure, professional lice removal services can provide peace of mind and immediate relief.