LICE LICE Lice are small flat-bodied sucking parasites that live on or near humans or animals. They feed on the scalp and lay their eggs, called nits, at the base of a strand of hair. The nits look like small gray ovals and are easiest to see behind the ears and at the back of the neck. Body lice live in the seams of clothing and not on the skin at all. Pubic lice live in the hair around the sex organs and lay their eggs on shafts of hair.
Pubic lice can also live in beards and eyebrows.
The main symptom of lice is severe itching. The skin may also become red and inflammed. The lice bites produce saliva that causes the itching and irritation. Head and body lice are spread by contact with an infected person or by sharing combs, towels, blankets, or clothing. Pubic lice are usually spread by sexual contact.