Get Relief from Mite-Related Itchy Skin in New Jersey
Scabies is a highly contagious skin condition caused by microscopic mites that burrow into the top layer of the skin. This infestation triggers an intense itching sensation and a rash that can resemble eczema. At Skin & Laser Center of NJ, we provide effective diagnosis and treatment to relieve discomfort, eliminate the mites, and prevent further spread of the condition.
Scabies is caused by the scabies mite, which lives, feeds, and reproduces in the skin. The condition spreads primarily through prolonged skin-to-skin contact with an infected person. Less commonly, it can be transmitted via infested items such as bedding, clothing, or furniture. Key factors about scabies transmission include:
A brief handshake or hug is usually insufficient to spread the mites
Mites can survive for 48 to 72 hours without human contact
Individuals with prior exposure develop symptoms faster than those experiencing scabies for the first time
After the mites burrow into the skin, symptoms appear as the body reacts to the infestation. Common signs include:
Severe itching, often worse at night
Rash resembling eczema, sometimes developing thick crusts
Small bumps or burrows, commonly on the hands (especially between fingers), wrists, elbows, arms, and skin covered by clothing or jewelry
Redness and irritation in affected areas
Our dermatologists provide effective treatment plans to eliminate scabies and relieve symptoms:
Prescription topical medications: Applied directly to the skin to kill mites
Oral medications: Used for severe or resistant cases
Environmental guidance: Cleaning and treating bedding, clothing, and personal items to prevent reinfestation
Education and prevention tips: Minimizing exposure to others and preventing future outbreaks
With prompt treatment, patients typically experience relief from itching and see significant improvement in skin appearance within a few weeks.
Learn More About Scabies
To effectively treat scabies, both the mites and their eggs need to be destroyed. Before this can happen, a dermatologist needs to formally diagnose scabies by visually examining a patient’s skin from head to toe. The provider may perform a skin biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.
Scabies treatment options at Skin & Laser Center of NJ include weekly topical medicated cream applications or oral medications. Most patients can be effectively cured with topical medicine. This medicine is often applied to all skin from the neck down at bedtime, and washed off in the morning. Infants and young children often need treatment for their face and scalp, too. Treatment can get rid of the mites and symptoms such as itching, and treat any infection that has developed. It is imperative to follow the doctor’s instructions and to wash all recently used clothing and bedding in hot water the next day.
For the first few days to a week, the rash and itch can worsen during treatment. Within four weeks, your skin should heal. If your skin has not healed within four weeks, you may still have mites. Some people need to repeat the treatment cycle two or three times to get rid of the mites. If you have any questions or concerns about your treatment, contact your provider.
Convenient walk in hours available below. No appointment needed! Accepting private insurance and medicare. No medicaid plans.
Learn more about medical treatments at New Jersey’s Skin & Laser Center of NJ. Call 201-500-7525 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.