I can help you figure this out, but I need a bit more information to give you the safest advice. What you’re seeing in your son’s hair could be several things—some harmless, some requiring attention.
Common Possibilities
- Head lice (nits or live lice)
- Tiny, oval, white or yellowish eggs attached firmly to hair strands near the scalp
- May see small moving insects
- Often causes itching
- Dandruff or dry scalp
- White flakes that come off easily when touched
- Not attached to the hair
- Hair product residue
- Gel, mousse, or hairspray can leave white, stringy clumps
- Usually comes off with washing
- Fungal infection (like ringworm of the scalp)
- Can cause patches of hair loss, redness, scaling
- May be itchy or inflamed
When to See a Doctor
- If the spots move or look like tiny insects (possible lice)
- If there’s redness, swelling, or sores
- If there is hair loss or bald patches
- If the scalp seems painful, itchy, or inflamed
What You Can Do Right Now
- Inspect under bright light, using a fine-toothed comb if possible
- Try to remove one item carefully—does it stick firmly or fall off easily?
- Note any itching, irritation, or other symptoms
If you can, send a clear photo of what you found. That will allow me to give you a more accurate answer and tell you whether an immediate doctor visit is necessary.
Do you want to do that?
