Lice vs. Dandruff: How to Tell the Difference

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If your child starts itching their head, your first thought is probably dry scalp or dandruff, not lice. But how can you tell the difference? Lice and dandruff can look surprisingly similar, especially in the early stages of an infestation. Here’s how to confidently spot the difference between the two.

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1. Look for Movement

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The most obvious sign that it’s lice: moving bugs in the hair.

• Lice are tiny, tan-to-brown insects that crawl quickly across the scalp.

• Dandruff never moves.

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2. Check the “Flakes”

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Both lice eggs (nits) and dandruff can appear as small white specks in the hair—but their behavior is very different:

• Nits (lice eggs) are glued to the hair strand. They won’t flake off if you touch or blow on them.

• Dandruff is loose and flakes off easily when disturbed.

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3. Color and Shape

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• Nits: Brown, tan, or translucent teardrop shapes. In the hair, they can reflect light and look white.

• Dandruff: Irregular in shape, size, and color—often flaky or powdery.

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Pro Tip: After combing, swipe the comb on a damp white paper towel.

• Nits will stand out against the white background.

• Dandruff will blend in and appear flaky.

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4. Use the Right Tool

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A professional-grade nit comb, like the Terminator Comb, is essential for proper checking. You can purchase one in clinic at Minnesota Lice Lady.

• Comb from scalp to tip, section by section.

• Nits will stick to the comb; dandruff will often rinse away.

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Quick Comparison Chart​​​​​​​​

 

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