ISpy Science

ISpy uses science to kill lice and nits. We see nits as a great opportunity to teach kids about the science of photonics and biofluorescence and, at the same time, use it as a way to break down social stigma associated with nits.

Knowledge is power when it comes to reducing stigma and understanding best practice.

What’s the science?

At the heart of ISpy Glo-powder is  biofluorescence and photonics.

Photonics is a branch of physics and technology that involves the study and application of light (photons). Biofluorescence is a fascinating natural phenomenon where an organism emits light after being exposed to another a light source. In the case of nits, the lice eggs contain proteins which can be excited by UV light to give out some visible light.  

ISpy Glo-powder binds to the egg sheath to intensify the effect - occurs because UV light has a shorter wavelength than visible light, and when it interacts with the bioluminescent proteins and the powder, it can excite them to emit light that is perceivable to the human eye.

ISpyNits Schools Education Programme

Knowledge is power when it comes to reducing stigma and understanding best practice. We’re passionate about educating young people and their families about the world of nits - there are so many things to know!

We offer education programmes for both our younger and older students that cover a range of nit-related topics and are a whole lot of fun!

Younger Age Groups

  • Heads, shoulders, knees and toes; how do lice eat and move around?

  • Where’s Nora? Camouflage 101

  • Glow-in-the-dark science

  • The world’s best superglue!

  • Simple life cycle

Older Age Groups

  • The science of biofluorescence and photonics

  • Evolve to survive (camouflage, respiration and food)

  • Advanced life cycle

  • Ancient civilisations  - what can ancient nits tell us?