Can Black People Get Lice? 4 Things You Need to Know

For decades, a common question has popped up in schools, beauty salons, and even doctors’ offices: Can Black people get lice? Many people — both Black and non-Black — believe the answer is “no.” This myth has been passed down through generations, often without anyone stopping to fact-check it.

The truth is more nuanced. While lice infestations are far less common in Black people compared to White or Asian individuals, they are not impossible. Black people can and do get lice, though the numbers are significantly lower. This lower rate has nothing to do with immunity and everything to do with biology, history, and even the types of lice that exist in different parts of the world.

In this article, we’ll break down why lice are less common in Black hair, how infestations happen, the differences in treatment for natural hair, braids, wigs, or locs, and how to prevent lice no matter your hair type.

Understanding Lice

Head lice are tiny, wingless parasites that live on the human scalp and feed on small amounts of blood. They spread primarily through direct head-to-head contact and occasionally by sharing personal items. Lice lay eggs (nits) that stick firmly to hair shafts, making them tricky to remove.

How Common Is Lice in Black People?

Research has shown stark differences in lice rates among different racial groups in the U.S. A notable study found:

About 10 percent of White children had lice
Only 0.3 percent of Black children had lice

That’s more than 30 times less common — but clearly, it still happens.

Why Lice Are Rare in Black Hair

1. Hair Shaft Shape and Texture

Hair texture plays a huge role.

White hair: Typically round in cross-section — easier for lice claws to grip.
Black hair: Often oval or elliptical in shape — harder for lice to hook onto.

Since lice crawl along hair shafts to feed and lay eggs, a shape that’s difficult to grasp naturally lowers the chance of infestation.

2. Historical Lice Origins

The most common lice species in the U.S., Pediculus humanus capitis, originally evolved in Europe. These lice adapted to straighter, round-shaped hair and were brought to America in the 19th century. They are less well-suited to cling to African hair textures.

3. Hair Products and Grooming Practices

Some traditional and modern Black hair care practices — such as the use of oils, pomades, and moisturizers — may create a scalp environment that’s less welcoming to lice. However, this is not a guaranteed shield. There are documented cases of Black people who used these products and still got lice.

4. Lice Adaptation in Africa

It’s important to note: in parts of Africa, some lice strains are adapted to oval-shaped hair shafts. So while rates are low in Black Americans due to the U.S. lice strain, Black people in African countries may face different risks.

How Lice Spread to Anyone — Including Black People

Even with these natural barriers, lice can still spread through:

Direct head-to-head contact — the most common method, especially in schools or group activities.
Sharing items like hats, scarves, helmets, brushes, or towels.
Contact with contaminated surfaces such as bedding, couches, or carpets used by someone with lice.

How to Prevent Lice in All Hair Types

Avoid head-to-head contact, especially in group settings like camps or sports.
Do not share hats, scarves, combs, or hair accessories.
Disinfect combs and brushes by soaking in hot water (130°F / 54°C) for 5–10 minutes.
Wash and dry bedding and clothes on high heat after possible exposure.
Seal unwashable items in a plastic bag for two weeks.
Vacuum furniture, rugs, and car seats used by an infested person.
Skip chemical lice sprays — they’re unnecessary and can be harmful.

Lice Treatment for Black Hair

The standard lice treatments — medicated shampoos, combing, and nit removal — work for all hair types. However, Black hair may require modified steps to ensure success, especially if wearing braids, wigs, weaves, or locs.

Step 1: Remove Barriers

Before treatment:

Take out weaves, wigs, and extensions.
Consider unlocking or cutting locs — lice can hide deep inside, making treatment nearly impossible without removal.

Step 2: Kill Live Lice

Use an over-the-counter or prescription lice treatment, following the instructions carefully.

Step 3: Remove Nits

No treatment kills 100% of eggs, so manual removal is essential.

Use a high-quality nit comb, like the Terminator Comb.
Straightening hair or using light oils can make combing easier.

Alternative & Natural Methods for Locs and Braids

If you want to avoid cutting your locs or braids:

Olive & Tea Tree Oil Treatment – Mix a few drops of tea tree oil into olive oil, soak overnight, wash with vinegar and water, and blow-dry. Repeat for 2 weeks.
Apple Cider Vinegar & Coconut Oil – Loosens the glue holding nits, making them easier to comb out.
Straightening Iron Heat – Applying high heat to sections can kill lice and nits, though not scientifically proven.

FAQ: Can Black People Get Lice?

Can Black people get lice from wigs or weaves?

Yes. Lice don’t live on synthetic hair, but if the wig or weave has been in contact with an infested scalp, lice or nits can be present. Always wash or disinfect hairpieces before use.

Do braids or locs prevent lice?

Not entirely. Braids and locs can make it harder for lice to move through hair, but they can still infest the scalp. They also make treatment more difficult.

Is lice less common in Black children?

Yes. Studies show rates are much lower in Black children compared to White children in the U.S., but they can still get lice if exposed.

Can oils in Black hair stop lice?

Some oils may make it harder for lice to survive, but they are not foolproof. People using oils and pomades have still gotten lice.

How do you check for lice in curly or coily hair?

Use a fine-toothed nit comb and good lighting. Separate hair into small sections and check close to the scalp, especially around the ears and neck.

Final Word: Can Black People Get Lice?

Yes. While rare, lice infestations can and do occur in Black people. Factors like hair shape, history, and hair care habits lower the risk — but don’t eliminate it. Awareness, prevention, and the right treatment approach are key for everyone, regardless of race or hair texture.

By Jasmine Smith | Published August 10, 2025