How Do Head Lice Start?
Almost always from head-to-head contact with someone who has live lice. Lice crawl — they don’t jump or fly. Sharing hats or brushes is a much rarer cause, and anyone with hair can get them (it isn’t about cleanliness).
- Itching varies: some people don’t itch at all — you still need to check.
- What to look for: live lice and tiny eggs (nits) stuck to hair close to the scalp.
What Is a “Nit Shell”?
People often use “nits” to mean lice, but a nit is actually the egg. After the egg hatches, the empty egg case (nit shell) stays glued to the hair and moves away from the scalp as hair grows. Removing nit shells helps you see whether new eggs are still being laid.
Free NHS Head Lice Advice in Neath
You can get free pharmacist advice and treatment through the NHS Common Ailments Service. We’ll show you exactly how to treat head lice, which products to choose and when to repeat treatment. Eligibility for free products varies — we’ll explain your local NHS options and the most cost-effective choices for your family.
Head Lice Treatment: What Works
1) Wet-Combing (“Bug Busting”)
On wet, conditioned hair, use a fine nit comb from scalp to ends in small sections. Wipe the comb on white tissue to spot lice. Repeat every 3–4 days for 2 weeks until no live lice are found on two consecutive sessions.
2) Silicone-Based Lotions (e.g., Dimeticone)
These non-insecticidal products work by suffocating/dehydrating lice. Follow the pack directions carefully and repeat after 7 days to catch newly hatched lice. We’ll recommend suitable options for your child’s age and hair type.
3) TELL Close Contacts
Check everyone in the household and treat those with live lice. Tell school or close friends so other families can check too — this prevents “ping-pong” re-infestation.
How Long Can Head Lice Live in Clothes?
Head lice need scalp warmth and blood to survive, so off the head they usually die within 1–2 days. A simple, practical clean is enough:
- Wash or seal for 48 hours any recently used hats, scarves, pillowcases or hair accessories.
- No need for deep cleaning of the house or spraying furniture.
Quick Head Lice Tips
- Use a quality nit comb and good lighting.
- Follow product instructions exactly and repeat on time.
- Check/treat close contacts to stop re-infestation.
- Don’t rely on itching — inspect to be sure.
What NOT to Do
- 🚫 Don’t use household sprays or fumigants — they don’t kill lice and can irritate lungs.
- 🚫 Don’t use pet flea products — these are unsafe for humans.
- 🚫 Avoid excessive combing on dry hair — it can damage the scalp.
- 🚫 Don’t assume one treatment is enough — always repeat as directed.
Written by Ali Sparkes BSc (Hons), MSc Econ, FRPharmS, IP
Medical disclaimer: This article is for information only and not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional (like ours) about your own circumstances.
