AI transparency
We want you to understand exactly how our tool works — including where it's helpful and where it isn't. Being honest about the technology is part of earning your trust.
HeadLiceChecker uses computer vision, a type of AI that looks at the pixels in a photo and estimates whether it can see head lice or their eggs (nits).
It's a screening tool
It gives an indication to help you decide what to do next — it is not a medical diagnosis.
You stay in control
Images are only kept if you opt in, and you can withdraw at any time.
What computer vision is
Computer vision is trained by showing a model many example images that have been carefully labelled by people. Over time it learns the visual patterns that tend to indicate lice and nits.
When you upload a photo, the model compares what it sees against those learned patterns and returns a result with a confidence level.
How the model detects lice and nits
- It looks for the size, shape, and colour patterns typical of live lice.
- It looks for nits attached to hair shafts near the scalp.
- It weighs everything up and returns a result: likely lice, likely clear, or uncertain.
Current limitations
- Blurry, dark, or distant photos are much harder to read accurately.
- Some hair colours, textures, and lighting conditions are more challenging.
- Dandruff, product residue, and debris can look similar to nits in a photo.
- It cannot rule head lice in or out with certainty — only a person checking closely can do that.
Why confidence varies
Confidence reflects how strongly the image matches patterns the model has seen before. A clear, close, well-lit photo usually produces higher confidence; a difficult photo produces lower confidence.
When confidence is low, we tell you the result is uncertain and suggest a manual check or a professional.
This is a screening tool, not a diagnosis
A positive or negative result is a prompt to act — not a clinical conclusion. If you're worried, do a wet-comb check or speak to a pharmacist, nurse, or clinic.
How future models improve — and how you help
Models get better when they learn from more varied, real-world images. If you choose to share your image after a scan, it may be reviewed by a person, labelled, and used to train future versions.
This is always optional. Nothing is used for model improvement without your explicit consent.
HeadLiceChecker provides indicative screening only and does not replace professional medical advice.
Manage your choices
View or withdraw consent and manage cookie preferences any time.