In adults, the areas of the skin most affected by scabies include the webs and sides of the fingers, wrists, elbows, armpits, waist, genitals, breasts and lower buttocks. In children, the feet and toes are also commonly affected. Symptoms will appear in 2 to 6 weeks in people who have never had scabies. People who have had scabies before may show symptoms within 1 to 4 days. A person can spread scabies until mites and eggs are destroyed by treatment.
Skin lotions are available from a doctor for the treatment of scabies.
The lotions are applied to the whole body except the head and neck. Sometimes itching may continue during for days after treatment. Clothes and bedding should be washed in hot water. In a few persons, treatment with lotion for a second time 7 to 10 days later may be needed. Avoid physical contact with people who have scabies and their belongings, especially clothing and bedding.