How to Treat (And Avoid) Mosquito Bites to Relieve the Itch ASAP

Mosquitoes are one of the most deadly animals in the world, killing millions of people each year. Are you tired of how itchy mosquito bites are and looking to avoid them? In this article, you’ll not only learn how to...

Sunday, April 5th 2020, 2:57 am

By: News On 6


Mosquito Bites

Mosquitoes are one of the most deadly animals in the world, killing millions of people each year. Are you tired of how itchy mosquito bites are and looking to avoid them?

In this article, you’ll not only learn how to treat mosquito bites but also how to avoid them when you’re out and about. Read on to discover these preventative measures so you can relax and enjoy the great outdoors.

Why Do Mosquito Bites Itch?

When you’re bitten by a mosquito, they inject some of their saliva into your skin when they take your blood. Their saliva has proteins and an anti-coagulant.

Your body sends out histamine which fights the proteins from the mosquito’s blood. When your body releases histamine, that’s what causes the itching and swelling.

How to Avoid Getting Bit

Always ensure your home has screens in the windows to avoid mosquitoes coming in. Use bug spray that contains DEET on all skin that isn’t covered by clothes. Any standing water you have, get rid of it immediately since that’ll be a breeding ground for them.

During dusk, dawn, and the early evening, avoid going outdoors since they’re most active during these times. Choose a mosquito control company in your area such as the Mosquito Authority Franchise.

Mosquitoes are especially attracted to lactic acid, sweat, body odor, heat, light, carbon dioxide, and when you drink alcohol.

Using Bug Spray

For avoiding mosquito bites, never spray bug spray directly onto your face. Always spray onto your hands and then rub it onto your face. Choose a spray that has a concentration of 30% DEET.

Apply the spray directly to any skin that’s not covered by clothing. Never use it on any open wounds or around the eyes and mouth. Ensure you’re not near food, and that you’re in a well-ventilated area when you spray it.

If you do get the spray in your eyes, flush it with water and contact your doctor immediately. When you’re done outdoors, wash your skin to make sure the spray is gone.

If you think you’re having an allergic reaction, wash the spray off with soap and water, and then contact your doctor.

Treating Mosquito Bites

When you’re looking to treat mosquito bites, there are more options than just anti-itch cream from the store. Did you know that there are actually many natural remedies that could be right in your home?

1. Use Rubbing Alcohol

To clean the area you’ll want to use rubbing alcohol. Since it’s cooling, it can also have an anti-itch effect as well.

2. Toothpaste

If you don’t have time to head to the store, try some toothpaste on the bite. It can help decrease any itching caused by it. Peppermint toothpaste is best since it’s an anti-inflammatory.

Toothpaste that contains menthol or baking soda works as well. Avoid gel-based toothpaste.

3. Salt

When you’re looking for how to get rid of mosquito bites and their itching, try salt. It’s anti-inflammatory and antiseptic. If you live near the water, you can go swimming in the salt-water.

You can also create a paste that combines table salt with a few drops of water. Once created, you can put the paste onto the bite.

Another option is making a paste using garlic salt, water, and seasoning salt. Once you combine these ingredients, you can place it on the bite. It might burn, but afterward, you’ll have relief.

4. Baking Soda

Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is found in many homes. It can provide itching relief. You can make a baking soda paste to apply directly to your bite.

You’ll want to mix baking soda and water together until a paste is formed. Place it on the bite, and leave it on for at least 10 minutes before you wash it off.

5. Basil Rub

Basil can give you mosquito bite relief thanks to its chemical compounds. You can make your own basil rub or apply basil oil to your skin. To make your own rub, you’ll need to boil a 1/2 ounce of dried basil leaves and 2 cups of water.

Once it’s cool, place a washcloth into the mixture and place it on your bite. If you’re looking for quicker results, take fresh basil leaves and rub them on your bite.

6. Lemons

Lemons are an anesthetic and anti-inflammatory. You can use lemon juice on your bites to minimize the risk of infection.

You can also chop basil leaves and add them to lemon juice. Apply this mixture onto the bite. Another option is to cut a lemon in half and rub one of the halves to the bite.

7. Anti-Itch Creams

If you’d rather just pick up some cream from the store, you can try different cortisone creams. Don’t use them on your face or on open wounds.

Don’t use them long-term since they can cause different reactions such as thinning skin.

Diseases From Mosquitoes

Using preventative measures is vital since mosquito bites can cause harmful diseases. Two common diseases are the Zika and West Nile Viruses.

Before traveling overseas, always check and see if there are certain vaccines you should get that’ll protect you from diseases. For example, in certain parts of the world, you’re more likely to pick up malaria or dengue virus.

Learning How to Treat Mosquito Bites

While learning how to treat mosquito bites might be easy with buying an anti-itch cream at the store, sometimes natural items can be just as beneficial.

Would you like to read more about the great outdoors and protecting yourself? Check out more of our articles today.

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