Can Bed Bugs Live in Your Hair?

Bed bugs often cause worry, and the thought of them hiding in our bedrooms is unsettling. The question, “Can bed bugs live in your hair?” is not simple to answer. While it’s possible to get bed bug bites on the scalp, it’s quite unlikely for these insects to choose your hair as a long-term home.

Bed bugs are small, about the size of the head of Lincoln on a penny, and they feed on blood. Only a few of the many bed bug species commonly bite humans. These pests are experts at hiding, with bodies shaped to fit into the smallest spaces in your bed. Although bed bugs are notorious, they don’t spread diseases to humans. Their bites, however, can cause intense itching and, if scratched too much, might lead to infections.

Finding a bed bug in your hair is rare because they prefer to stay hidden when not feeding. It’s possible that a bed bug might end up on your scalp by accident during sleep, but they’re unlikely to stay there.

Keep reading to learn why bed bugs don’t typically live in human hair and learn about other insects that might.

The Unlikelihood of Bed Bugs in Hair

Bed bugs are notorious for their biting and hiding habits, but they are not adapted to live in human hair. These pests prefer to stay close to their feeding areas, typically beds, and come out to feed at night. The idea of bed bugs living in your hair is a misconception. They might crawl over you while you sleep, and getting a bite on your scalp is possible, but they are unlikely to take up residence there.

Why Your Hair Doesn't Make a Good Home for Bed Bugs

Bed bugs, known for their stealthy and unwelcome visits during the night, have been the subject of many myths, including the idea that they can live in human hair. However, this is a misconception. Bed bugs are not equipped to navigate the complex landscape of human hair. Their anatomy is designed for life in the flat, undisturbed crevices of mattresses and furniture, not the dynamic environment of human hair.

Why Bed Bugs Avoid Hair

Anatomy: Bed bugs have flat, oval bodies that are perfect for hiding in seams and cracks but not for clinging to hair.
Behavior: They are attracted to the carbon dioxide we exhale and the warmth of our bodies, which is why they are found near sleeping areas. However, they do not like light or movement, making hair an unsuitable habitat.
Feeding Habits: Bed bugs feed on blood by piercing the skin with their elongated beaks. They prefer exposed skin rather than navigating through hair.

The Reality of Bed Bugs in Your Vicinity

While bed bugs may occasionally crawl over you, including your scalp, while you sleep, they do not stay there. After feeding, they retreat to their hiding places.

If you find something in your hair, it’s more likely to be lice, ticks or fleas, which have the adaptations to live on a host. Bed bugs, on the other hand, are transient feeders. They come out, feed, and then retreat to their hiding spots.

How To Get Rid of Bugs From Your Hair?

As we mentioned earlier, bed bugs aren’t attracted to your hair specifically – they’ll bite wherever they can find an exposed area of skin. However, if you’re worried about bed bugs in your hair, there are some things you can do to help prevent them.

Preventive Measures to Protect Your Hair from Bed Bugs:

Regular Inspection: Frequently check your sleeping area for signs of bed bugs. Salt Lake Pest Control offers thorough inspections to identify any infestations.

Protective Coverings: Utilize bed bug-proof covers for your pillows and mattresses. Our team can recommend high-quality protective gear.

Professional Treatment: In case of an infestation, professional pest control services are crucial. Professional bed bug exterminator in Salt Lake Pest Control provides top-tier treatments to eliminate bed bugs from your home, ensuring they stay away from your hair and skin.