Scabies and Nails: Do Mites Burrow Under Fingernails or Toenails?

Scabies Mite Behavior

Scabies mites (Sarcoptes scabiei) burrow into the upper layer of the skin, creating thin, wavy tunnels that cause intense itching. They prefer areas with thin skin:

• Webs between fingers and toes
• Wrists and elbows
• Abdomen and waistline
• Genital area

Nail Involvement

Scabies mites do not typically burrow under fingernails or toenails. The hard keratin of nails is not a suitable environment for tunneling. However, mites may be found on the skin around the nail folds.

If you suspect scabies, see a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and prescription treatment (usually topical permethrin or oral ivermectin).