Lice How to Tell the Difference Between & Fleas

Lice and dandruff are both common scalp conditions, but they are caused by different things and have different symptoms.

Lice

* Tiny, wingless insects that live on the scalp and feed on human blood

* Can cause itching, crawling sensations, and sores on the scalp

* Nits, which are lice eggs, can be seen on the hair shafts

* Lice are spread through close contact with an infested person or by sharing combs, brushes, or hats

Dandruff

* A common skin condition that causes the scalp to flake

* Can be caused by a variety of factors, including dry skin, oily skin, and a yeast infection

* Symptoms include itching, flaking, and redness

* Dandruff is not contagious

Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between lice and dandruff:

| Feature | Lice | Dandruff |

|---|---|---|

| Cause | Tiny, wingless insects that live on the scalp and feed on human blood | A common skin condition that causes the scalp to flake |

| Symptoms | Itching, crawling sensations, sores on the scalp, nits on the hair shafts | Itching, flaking, redness |

| Spread | Spread through close contact with an infested person or by sharing combs, brushes, or hats | Not contagious |

| Treatment | Medicated shampoos, lotions, or pills | Over-the-counter or prescription shampoos, conditioners, or scalp treatments |

If you think you may have lice, it is important to see a doctor or pharmacist to get diagnosed and treated. Dandruff can usually be treated with over-the-counter shampoos or conditioners.