Scabies is caused by a mite that burrows under the skin and lays eggs. Treatment involves applying prescription scabicide lotion or cream to all areas of the body from the neck down for the recommended time to kill the mites and eggs. Bedding, clothing, and towels used by infected individuals should be decontaminated. Household members and close contacts who had direct skin contact with the infected person should also be examined and treated at the same time to prevent reinfestation. Itching may continue for several weeks after successful treatment.