Want some relief from itching bug bites? Try some of these remedies:
For any kind of bite, you can soothe itching with over-the-counter topical or oral antihistamines, calamine lotion, witch hazel or one-percent hydrocortisone cream.
Or you can try any of a number of natural tactics:
- Hydrogen peroxide. “It seems to neutralize the protein in the mosquito’s saliva that causes the reaction,” says Connecticut-based emergency room physician David John, MD. Just dab a little on the bite with a cotton ball. “You won’t itch and the bite won’t swell,” says John.
- Ice. Wrap a few cubes in a clean towel or washcloth and hold it against the bite. Do this for 10 minutes on and 10 minutes off to reduce swelling as well as relieve itching. A bag of frozen peas or corn will do the trick too.
- Cold brewed tea bag. Some studies have found that flavonoids in tea have an anti-inflammatory effect. Apply a dampened or brewed tea bag to bites. And go green: Because green tea is higher in flavonoids, it may bring more relief.
- Aloe vera. Break open a stem of this succulent plant and apply a bit of the gel-like substance inside to bites. Aloe vera has been found effective for all sorts of skin woes, including inflammation.
- Baking soda. Mix a spoonful with enough water to make a paste and dab onto bites.
- Oatmeal. Take a bath in colloidal oatmeal. Colloidal oatmeal — oatmeal that has been ground up and boiled — is found in all sorts of skin-care products, including powders to add to baths. Run a cool bath; hot water can irritate skin even further. You can also hold an oatmeal-soaked compress against a bite for 15 minutes, say experts at the University of Michigan.
- Bandage. Covering a bite with a bandage won’t make it itch less, but it will protect skin from forgetful fingers.
And remember, be alert for serious reactions. If a bite becomes increasingly red, swollen, or painful, call a doctor! If you’re extra sensitive to bug bites, don’t hesitate to call a doctor if you begin to have a serious reaction.