Head Lice
Head lice are tiny insects that live on the scalp and feed on small amounts of blood. Knowing how to get rid of lice takes the right treatment and careful combing for eggs, called nits. Lice are common in school age children and do not spread disease.
What Is It
Lice spread through direct head to head contact, and less often through shared hats, brushes, or pillows. They cannot jump or fly. Getting lice has nothing to do with being clean. Pets do not spread head lice.
Symptoms
- Itching on the scalp, behind the ears, and at the back of the neck
- A tickling feeling of something moving in the hair
- Tiny white or yellow eggs stuck to hair near the scalp
- Small, tan insects in the hair
- Red bumps or sores from scratching
- Trouble sleeping, since lice are more active in the dark
Not sure it’s lice? Flakes that brush off easily are usually dandruff, while nits stick tightly to the hair. Red, scaly patches with hair loss may be scalp ringworm.
Treatment
At your visit: A provider checks the scalp and hair for live lice and nits. Most cases clear with an over the counter treatment. Lice that keep coming back may need a stronger prescription.
At home:
- Use a lice treatment exactly as directed and repeat in 7 to 9 days
- Comb wet hair with a fine tooth nit comb every 2 to 3 days for 2 weeks
- Wash bedding, hats, and towels used in the last 2 days in hot water
- Check everyone in the household
Treatment and combing clear most lice within 2 weeks.
When to Get Care for Head Lice
Most head lice cases can be cared for at home. If you are not sure what it is, or it is not getting better, Vitality Urgent Care is here to answer your questions and advise the right treatment. No appointment is needed.
FAQ
How do you get rid of lice fast?
Get rid of lice by using a lice treatment as directed, combing out nits with a fine tooth comb, and repeating treatment in 7 to 9 days.
How do you know if you have lice?
You may have lice if your scalp itches and you see tiny eggs stuck tightly to hair near the scalp, or small tan insects moving in the hair.
Can lice live on pillows and furniture?
Lice can live off the head for only 1 to 2 days. Washing bedding and vacuuming furniture is enough. Deep cleaning the home is not needed.
Can my child go to school with lice?
Most schools allow children to return after the first lice treatment. Check your school’s policy, and check the whole family at the same time.
Can urgent care treat lice?
Yes, urgent care can check for and treat lice. At Vitality Urgent Care, a provider can confirm the diagnosis and discuss treatment. No appointment or referral is needed.
Why do lice keep coming back?
Lice keep coming back when nits are missed, the second treatment is skipped, or someone else in the home or class still has lice.
Last reviewed October 2026
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