If you are like me, a little lunch break for this insect (on you) can send you scratching and wanting to rip at your skin for days. Hopefully, you are not as allergic as I am (see my pictures below) and may find some of the following tips useful in alleviating the itching and discomfort associated with mosquito bites!
Rave Tips When Tackling Mosquito Bites
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- Don’t scratch! At least try! I know you can’t help it, but scratching mosquito bite areas will only induce more itching. Not only does it not help (albeit temporary relief), it can put you at risk for developing secondary skin infections from breaks in the skin. Keeping your nails short will also help to minimize risk of infection. (Keeping skin infections, breaks in the skin, scratches and marks to a minimum will also lessen inflammatory responses that can cause hyperpigmentation afterwards) (um hello, who wants dark marks?!)
- Apply cool compresses to the mosquito bite areas can soothe and lessen the intensity of the itch. Cool gel packs off and on for a few minutes can help! Or even through the use of a washcloth with cold water for 5 minutes will do….Ice cubes with whole milk can help also....Just don’t get an ice burn!
- Applying over the counter hydrocortisone or antihistamine creams can also lessen the intensity of the itch. If you have a mosquito bite area that starts to weep, try the antihistamine as a spray as it helps to dry the affected area. (FYI, never apply cortisone over open skin or an open wound as it will slow healing and never apply spray over an open wound, the alcohol content will sting like mad!) With children, it is always recommended to consult with your pediatrician prior to use of any product or treatment.
- For those who prefer a natural healing salve which incorporate healing botanicals and oils as opposed to chemical ingredients to soothe and heal, this is my favorite salve of all time (it really helps lessen the itch intensity).Natural + Organic Healing Salve For Treating Mosquito Bites
- For open wounds related to scratching, try over the counter anti-infectives such as Neosporin or Bacitracin to help prevent secondary infection.
- If you’re still suffering after trying the above, call your dermatologist. Get the okay to take an over the counter antihistamine and maybe get a prescription strength spray or cream. Your dermatologist may recommend that you go in for a visit. Sometimes we are just so allergic to these darn bugs that we need a little stronger help!
- To aid in minimizing bites, the use of insect repellants containing DEET may be helpful. Just be sure to follow the manufacturer instructions for their proper application and use. If you're looking for a DEET Free product, there are brands like All Terrain or Badger Balm that uses essential oils to repel insects. DEET FREE Natural Mosquito Repellant
- At any point after your mosquito bite, if you do not feel well, you should seek medical attention immediately. Some people are severely allergic to bites where their respiratory system is affected and airways start to close. This is a medical emergency. You should call 911 or your emergency help line immediately! In some instances, illnesses can be transmitted through the bites of these insects, so again contacting your medical provider is a good idea if you are not feeling well after being bitten.
Using Badgers Anti-Bug Shake and Spray all summer long helps me to prevent getting these mosquito bites!!! I was SOOOOOOOO miserable (and that’s putting it mildly)
Above my left lower ankle.
Below the inside of my right wrist.
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