What is the difference between dandruff and nits, what are their causes, symptoms, and quick treatment methods, both are common scalp problems that can affect children and adults of all ages. We will learn the difference between them, how to distinguish between them, and effective treatment methods.
What is dandruff
Dandruff is a common skin condition affecting the scalp. It appears as dry or oily flakes that easily fall out of the hair and are accompanied by itching. It is the result of rapid skin cell turnover or the spread of Malassezia fungi.
What are nits
Nits are very small lice eggs that stick to the hair shaft and vary in color from white to brown or yellow, and are difficult to remove.
Symptoms of dandruff and nits
Symptoms of dandruff in the hair include:
- Itchy scalp.
- Temporary hair loss.
- Dry or oily flakes.
- Yellow or white flakes on clothing.
Symptoms of nits include:
- Red or bloody spots on the scalp due to itching.
- Severe itching of the scalp.
- Black spots on the scalp.
What causes dandruff
Common causes of dandruff include:
- Dry scalp, which is the most common cause.
- Skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema.
- Malassezia, an oil-feeding fungus that lives on the scalp.
- Allergies to hair products or shampoos.
- Excessive oil on the scalp.
Causes of nits
Nits are the eggs of lice that live and reproduce on the scalp. They are transmitted through infection. Infection occurs through:
- Direct contact, which is the most common cause.
- Sharing personal items such as brushes, hats, and headphones.
- Sharing personal items in common areas.
What is the difference between dandruff and nits
The main difference is that dandruff appears on the scalp and falls off easily, while nits (lice eggs) are small eggs that stick to the hair and must be removed with a special brush.
Steps to Remove Nits at Home
- First, wash your hair thoroughly with shampoo to remove any dirt and facilitate combing.
- Use conditioner or oils to facilitate combing.
- Use a fine-toothed lice comb, starting from the roots to the tips.
- You can apply baby oil or petroleum jelly to the scalp and cover it overnight, then comb it in the morning.
Are nits transmitted from one person to another
Yes, the spread of nits is not related to personal hygiene. This is because they are contagious and can be easily transmitted from one person to another, especially through direct contact with the scalp.
It can also be transmitted by sharing personal items with an infected person, such as towels, combs, or clothing. Infection can be reduced by avoiding touching the scalp of others and not sharing personal items.
Dandruff Treatment
To treat dandruff, doctors prescribe medicated products and shampoos containing ingredients such as:
- Tar, which helps slow the death of skin cells on the scalp.
- Selenium sulfide, which helps eliminate fungi.
- Salicylic acid, which eliminates white spots on the scalp.
- Zinc pyrithione, which contains antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Does vinegar remove dandruff from hair
Yes, as vinegar helps remove dandruff and cleanse the scalp thanks to its antifungal and antibacterial properties. It is essential to consult a doctor before using it.
It also has the ability to balance the pH of the scalp and reduce excess oils. It is applied to the scalp after shampooing, massaged, and then rinsed thoroughly.
Nits in Children
Nits are lice eggs that most commonly infect children between the ages of 3 and 11. They appear as white particles that adhere firmly to the hair and are difficult to remove.
The doctor may prescribe medications to kill lice and eggs, or home remedies such as combing the hair with a fine-toothed comb to remove them and avoiding sharing the child's belongings to prevent infection.
Summary of the Difference Between Dandruff and Nits
Dandruff is flakes that fall from the scalp. It does not adhere to the hair and falls off easily. It occurs as a result of excessive shedding of dead cells from the scalp.
Nits, on the other hand, are lice eggs that are attached to the hair and are difficult to move or fall off easily, like dandruff. They appear as white, oval dots firmly attached to the hair.