For most parents, discovering head lice in a child’s hair is a moment of dread. A mix of frustration, worry, and a race against time to prevent reinfestation. ISpy Nits, founded in by Kate Ricketts, is turning that stress upside down. With a science-led, kid-friendly approach, this start-up is reshaping the way families detect and treat lice, earning it the Most Outstanding Fledgling Business award at the 2025 David Awards.
“Being recognised by The David Awards was really surprising, but incredibly rewarding. It’s validation for all the work we’ve put in to make a difference for families,” says Kate.
A glow-in-the-dark solution
ISpy Nits’ flagship product, the NitKit, is a complete detection and treatment system. At its core is the innovative Glo-Powder, the world’s first glow-in-the-dark powder that highlights lice eggs under UV light. Add a child-friendly, odourless treatment lotion, combs, a UV torch, and even fun tattoos, and you have a system designed to make head lice management accurate, engaging, and stigma-free.
“It’s really changing the narrative. Traditional lice treatments are clinical, smelly, and often traumatic, especially for sensory-sensitive children. Our approach uses science, and a little glow magic, to make it easier for parents and more fun for kids.”
The concept is simple yet revolutionary: No more guesswork, no more missed eggs, and no more stress. By making the invisible visible, Kate says that ISpy Nits empowers families to take control with confidence.
From kitchen table to science lab
Inspired by her neurodivergent son, who struggled with traditional treatments, Kate began experimenting with ideas at home. She combined past experiences as a veterinary nurse with years working at the University of Auckland, where she connected schools and community groups with scientific researchers.
“I was familiar with UV light diagnostics and reading about entomologists using fingerprinting powders. I thought, why not apply that to lice detection?” she says.
“Through the university, I gained access to labs and PhD students who helped me prototype the powder safely and effectively.”
ISpy Nits Founder Kate Ricketts.
The project quickly evolved into a business, with Kates drawing on her Master’s in Business and her time at the university’s Maker Club and innovation ecosystem to navigate the transition from employee to entrepreneur.
“Incubator programmes taught me everything from fundraising to market segmentation. It’s one thing to have an idea, it’s another to turn it into a viable business. Having mentors and a safe space to make mistakes was invaluable.”
The glow powder isn’t the only innovation Kate has up her sleeve. ISpy Nits is also redefining the social conversation around head lice. By framing lice management as a STEM learning opportunity, the company is normalising an issue that’s often shrouded in shame.
“We’ve had kids fascinated by seeing lice under a microscope and parents learning myths versus facts. Our school sessions, collaborations with Mana Kidz, Starship Community Services, and kura kaupapa Māori, as well as free educational programmes, make it about knowledge and empowerment rather than fear.”
The social mission extends to manufacturing partnerships as well. Through Will & Able, an organisation employing people with disabilities, ISpy Nits produces parts of its product kits while creating meaningful employment opportunities.
“Supporting organisations like Will & Able is close to my heart. My older brother is disabled, so I’ve seen firsthand the value of inclusive employment. They’re true business partners and an extension of our team.”
However, Kate says, launching a health-focused product isn’t for the faint-hearted. The NitKit is a Grade 1 medical device, requiring strict regulatory compliance. Advertising, claims, and promotions are tightly controlled, limiting the ability to use testimonials or before-and-after images.
“You have to think outside the box. Education is everything. We can’t rely on traditional marketing; we have to communicate value and build trust through schools, pharmacies, and partnerships.”
Despite the hurdles, the business has already achieved impressive milestones, including securing investment from UniServices and Cure Kids Ventures, expanding into Amazon Australia, and preparing for FDA clearance to enter the US market.
“Every day is a learning curve. There are days you feel like the world has ended, but the next morning often brings clarity. You just have to roll with the punches.”
Since launching less than three years ago, ISpy Nits has transformed from a kitchen-table project into a nationwide and soon global operation. Parents report less stress, faster detection, and better engagement with children during treatment. Schools appreciate a practical, evidence-based solution that’s safe, odourless, and easy to implement.
“Our ethos is simple: Make something effective, educational, and fun, and the rest follows. If kids can learn and enjoy the process, and parents feel empowered, we’ve succeeded.
“We want to make head lice management easier, stigma-free, and educational for every family. Recognition like The David Awards not only validates what we’re doing, but it amplifies our mission.”
ISpy Nits is helping reduce the stigma around nits.
Advice for business owners
Kate’ journey offers lessons for any aspiring business owner.
“Tell lots of people about your idea,” she says.
“Different audiences will highlight blind spots, suggest improvements, and validate what works. Don’t keep it to your circle, get feedback, pivot quickly, and always be learning.”
She also underscores the value of entering awards. “It’s not just about recognition. The process forces you to reflect on your business, articulate your purpose, and see where you stand. It’s time well spent.”
For Kate, that time well spent is measured not just in sales or awards, but in the smiles of children, the confidence of parents, and the broader awareness they create around health, hygiene, and STEM learning.
“I love seeing kids’ eyes light up. When they engage with the science and understand what’s happening, it’s magical. And that’s the difference we hope to make in every home, every school, and eventually, every country.”
ISpy Nits won Most Outstanding Fledgling Business at the 2025 The David Awards. The judges said of the winning entry: “This business has got off to a solid start, having completed all necessary regulatory and IP milestones, and is now poised to secure a significant share of the market sector, both here in New Zealand and in offshore markets.”
If you think your small business has what it takes to enter and win, entries for the 2026 The David Awards are free and can be submitted here.
