Lice

Table of Contents

Other names

Pediculosis
Head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis)
Body lice (Pediculus humanus corporis)
Pubic lice (Pthirus pubis, “crabs”)

Synopsis

Lice are tiny parasitic insects that feed on human blood and infest the scalp, body, or pubic area. Infestations are common, especially in school-aged children, and spread easily through close contact or shared personal items. While lice are not dangerous or disease-carrying, they cause itching, skin irritation, and social discomfort.

Types of lice:

  • Head lice: Most common; live on the scalp and hair shafts.

  • Body lice: Live in clothing seams and move to the body to feed.

  • Pubic lice: Infest coarse body hair in the groin, armpits, chest, and sometimes eyebrows.

Symptoms include:

  • Intense itching, especially behind ears or at the nape of the neck

  • Red bumps or scratch marks

  • Presence of nits (eggs) attached to hair shafts

  • Crawling sensation on skin

  • In pubic or body lice: visible lice and inflamed skin

Transmission:

  • Person-to-person contact (especially head-to-head)

  • Shared hats, brushes, towels, bedding, or clothing

  • Sexual contact (in the case of pubic lice)

When to see a doctor:
If over-the-counter treatments fail, if skin becomes infected, or if lice recur frequently, medical treatment may be needed. Diagnosis is typically visual and may involve a fine-tooth lice comb or magnification.

Natural Remedies

Wet-Combing: Use a fine-tooth lice comb on damp, conditioned hair daily to remove lice and nits.

Wash Bedding and Clothing in Hot Water: Dry on high heat to kill lice and eggs.

Vacuum Furniture and Car Seats: Reduces reinfestation risk.

Avoid Sharing Personal Items: Combs, hats, and towels should not be shared.

Use Natural Oils (with caution): Some people try diluted tea tree oil or neem oil for lice—only if skin is not sensitive.