Lice Facts & Myths
Separating fact from fiction about head lice to help you make informed decisions about treatment and prevention.
Common Myths About Head Lice
Only dirty people get head lice
Head lice have no preference for clean or dirty hair. They affect people of all hygiene levels and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Lice can jump or fly from head to head
Lice cannot jump, fly, or hop. They can only crawl and spread through direct head-to-head contact.
You can get lice from pets
Head lice are species-specific. They can only survive on human hosts and cannot be transmitted through pets.
You need to throw away all bedding and clothing
Simply washing items in hot water (130°F) or sealing them in plastic bags for 48 hours is sufficient.
Understanding Head Lice
Life Cycle
Head lice go through three stages: nit (egg), nymph, and adult. The entire cycle takes about 3 weeks.
Transmission
Lice spread primarily through direct head-to-head contact. Indirect transmission through shared items is much less common.
Detection
Early signs include itching and visible nits (eggs) attached to hair shafts, particularly around the neckline and behind ears.
Scientific Facts
Head lice can't survive more than 24-48 hours without a human host
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Adult lice can lay up to 6 eggs per day and live for about 30 days
Source: American Academy of Pediatrics
Lice move by crawling at a rate of up to 23 cm per minute
Source: Journal of Medical Entomology
Head lice have existed for thousands of years, with specimens found on ancient mummies
Source: Archaeological Studies
Educational Resources
Have More Questions?
Our experts are here to help you understand and effectively deal with head lice. Contact us for professional advice and treatment.