A live nit attached to a hair that falls off the head can survive more than 24 hours. The newly hatched louse also must have food and it may not find any on a sofa or carpet unless you happen to be there when it hatches. A newly laid nit looks dark gray. They are attached to hair close to the scalp. As the hair grows it moves the nit further from the scalp.
Empty nits are white in appearance.
Nits containing a developing louse or a dead one look light brown or tan-colored. Nit Removal is the key to successful elimination of head lice. The comb has 1.5 inch-long stainless steel teeth with precision spacing. Health Department personnel and parents who have used the comb know it is the most effective and efficient mechanical device for removing nits. Section off the hair before starting the combing.