09/18/2026
We’ve been so busy with head lice treatments, research, and the clinical trial (which we’re still enrolling for, by the way) that we have neglected our usual educational posts.
There is so much confusion and myths surrounding head lice and their eggs. For example some believe that head lice eggs are microscopic or invisible. Some believe that the eggs even grow after being laid. Some claim head lice lay batches or clusters of eggs like grapes. Dandy Strands is where head lice and their myths come to die. 😎
Pictured below is an adult female louse actively laying an egg. As you can see, the egg is not microscopic or invisible. In fact, it’s even possible to see an egg inside the female. There also isn’t more than one egg being laid at a time. The head louse egg takes up roughly 20% of the female abdomen, so she can only lay one at a time. A female can lay about 8–10 eggs in a 24-hour period.
Looking at the louse from the top, you can see the “W” shape that distinguishes female lice from males. Called gonopods, these appendages are not pinchers; they help the female louse grasp a strand of hair close to the scalp as she deposits a “glue” droplet and egg. You can see there are essentially two sets, with another set underneath her abdomen, that help guide the egg as it’s being laid along the hair strand.
The female must move forward, away from the egg, helping spread the glue droplet onto the hair and egg shell, or she risks becoming glued down herself.
Head lice education is our passion. Whether you need head checks for the whole family, prevention tips, or advice, we are here for you!
Ready to get rid of your head lice? Call or text today! ☎️ 580-478-4036 ☎️
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