Lice are usually very itchy, especially behind the ears and at the nape of the neck
Dandruff usually causes scalp flaking, with less intense itching
Lice eggs are tiny, oval, and firmly attached to hair shafts
Dandruff flakes are loose and brush off easily
Lice may cause a crawling or tickling feeling on the scalp
Dandruff does not cause crawling or tickling
Lice are often seen as small tan, brown, or gray insects moving on the scalp or hair
Dandruff appears as white or yellowish flakes on the scalp and hair
Lice symptoms often spread to close contacts in the same household or school
Dandruff is not contagious
Lice can cause red bumps or sores from scratching
Dandruff may cause scalp dryness, but not insect bites or nits
A fine-tooth comb can help find lice or nits
If flakes slide off easily, it is more likely dandruff
If objects stay stuck to the hair and do not move, it is more likely lice eggs
A healthcare professional or pharmacist can help confirm the cause if you are unsure