Hampton Roads Lice Experts Weigh In

One of the biggest misconceptions about lice is that every nit you see is a threat.

It’s not.

Knowing whether nits are alive or dead determines whether an infestation is active or resolving.

What Do Viable (Alive) Nits Look Like?

• Brown or tan
• Located within ¼ inch of the scalp
• Plump and full
• Firmly attached

Lice eggs require warmth from the scalp to incubate. If a nit is far down the hair shaft, it is almost always nonviable.

What Do Dead or Hatched Nits Look Like?

• White or clear
• Further down the hair
• May appear flattened
• Often empty shells

Parents often continue treating unnecessarily because they mistake old casings for active infestation.

Why Location Matters

Hair grows about ¼ inch every two weeks.

If a nit is one inch away from the scalp, that egg was laid roughly two months ago. It is not viable.

This is where professional assessment makes a difference.

At PALS Lice Treatment & Removal, we evaluate:

• Egg viability
• Active crawling lice
• Treatment effectiveness
• Household spread

We offer lice treatment in Virginia Beach and Norfolk clinics, plus mobile in-home lice removal throughout Hampton Roads for families who prefer privacy and convenience.

FAQ Section

Do dead nits need to be removed?
Yes, for cosmetic reasons and school policies, but they cannot hatch.

Can shampoo kill nits?
Most over-the-counter shampoos do not reliably kill eggs.

How long do lice eggs take to hatch?
Typically 7–10 days.

If you’re searching for lice removal near Virginia Beach or Norfolk, PALS provides expert evaluation and complete treatment options.