Mosquito Bite Itch Remedy
From LoveToKnow Skincare
It happens far too often: You idly begin scratching your skin and realize you're in desperate need of a mosquito bite itch remedy – one that actually works. Before you do anything else, start with the most important step: Keep those hands off that bite!
How to Recognize a Mosquito Bite
You don't necessarily have to spend hours outdoors in order to earn yourself a dreaded badge of honor courtesy of a mosquito's unpleasant bite. Even a quick jog to the mailbox allows just enough time for the pesky little thing to land itself on your skin, bite down and withdraw some blood. While it's doing that, the mosquito's saliva is injected into the area, causing a reaction. Often, this reaction is not evident immediately, and in some cases it can take several hours for the bite's presence to be obvious.
When it does become obvious, it's unmistakable. That's because the symptoms of a mosquito bite are fairly noticeable. They include small, soft, pale bumps on the skin that may become red, as well as itchiness. The bump, too, may not appear immediately, and when they do arise they can vary greatly in size. Itchiness is quite typical, and may be more prominent in individuals who already have very sensitive skin or who are particularly sensitive to mosquito bites.
In some cases, the reaction may go beyond the usual redness and itchiness. If you experience hives, wheezing or swelling in the throat, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately. The same goes for any symptoms that suggest you may have contracted an illness, such as West Nile virus, yellow or dengue fever or malaria, from the mosquito. These symptoms include nausea, vomiting, fever, severe headache, body aches, swollen glands, rash, lethargy, jaundice and sensitivity to light. Again, if any of these symptoms are experienced, seek medical counsel immediately.
Choose a Mosquito Bite Itch Remedy
If you're "lucky" enough to be dealing with a mosquito bite (and we all will, at some point or another), there isn't much you can do except wait it out. The bite will, of course, disappear eventually. However, you can do a few things to decrease the discomfort you might feel.
Itchiness is usually the most common complain associated with a mosquito bite, so it should come as no surprise to learn that there are so many remedies designed to treat this uncomfortable malady. Some are so simple, you can use products that you'll find in the comfort of your own home. Others are equally simple but may require a trip to the drugstore. Here's a breakdown of the mosquito bite itch remedy options available when you want to curb that itch!
Home Remedies for Mosquito Bites
Head straight to the kitchen! A number of household items can be dabbed onto the bite and may offer itch relief. Simply apply the item in question to a cotton swab and dab a small amount directly onto the bite (discontinuing use, of course, if you experience further discomfort):
- Honey
- Toothpaste
- Nail polish
- Vinegar
- Deodorant (just rub this on – be sure to use a new solid!)
- Mouthwash
If you're not immune to a little cooking, you can throw together one of these easy concoctions and apply it to the bite. These are most effective when applied almost immediately after discovering the bite; their consistencies should be thick so they'll remain on the skin. Quantities of each item may vary depending on the thickness of your concoction.
- Make a paste using eight aspirin tablets and water.
- Make a paste using six Tums antacid tablets and water.
- Combine honey, baking soda and water to form a thick paste.
Essential oils are also helpful in warding off discomfort. It's important to note that some essential oils can cause further discomfort on sensitive individuals, and some are simply not safe to use on pregnant women and children. If these situations don't apply to you, dab a cotton ball soaked in any of the following onto your bite:
- Cedar oil
- Lavender oil
- Tea tree oil
- Witch hazel
Drugstore Remedies
If home remedies aren't your thing, head straight to the first aid section at the drugstore. You'll find plenty of treatments formulated to heal the itch and calm the situation down. Among them are:
- Bite Itch Eraser promises quick relief. The portable pen applicator makes it easy to apply – simply rub it onto the bite.
- Mitigator Sting and Bite Scrub: This product is a dream if you're particularly prone to scratching. Applying it immediately curbs the impulse and neutralizes bacteria and toxins.
- Bite Blocker: Ward off a bite in the first place by spraying a bit of water- and sweat-proof Bite Blocker onto the skin. It helps repel insects and keeps your skin clean and bite-free. Preventing mosquito bites is essential!
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This page has been accessed 1,158 times. This page was last modified 03:05, 1 May 2009.
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