Why do mosquito bites itch. How can you prevent mosquito bites. What are the best home remedies for mosquito bites. Are some people more attractive to mosquitoes. How long do mosquito bites last. Can you be allergic to mosquito bites. What are the most effective mosquito repellents.

Understanding Mosquito Bites: Causes and Symptoms

Mosquito bites are a common nuisance during warm weather, but understanding why they occur and how they affect our bodies can help us better manage and prevent them. Female mosquitoes are the culprits behind these itchy bumps, as they require blood to lay eggs.

How exactly does a mosquito bite work? When a female mosquito lands on your skin, she uses six specialized mouthparts to penetrate your skin and access your blood vessels. One tube injects saliva containing anticoagulants, while another extracts blood. This process triggers your body’s immune response, releasing histamines to fight off the foreign substances.

The result? A small, pink, and itchy bump typically appears within 20 minutes of the bite. For most people, the itching peaks within 24-48 hours and gradually subsides over 3-4 days. However, complete healing may take up to a week.

Why do mosquito bites itch so much?

The intense itching associated with mosquito bites is primarily due to the body’s histamine response. When mosquito saliva enters your bloodstream, your immune system recognizes it as a foreign substance and releases histamines to combat it. This reaction causes inflammation, swelling, and that persistent itchy sensation.

Mosquito Bite Allergies: Skeeter Syndrome and Beyond

While most people experience mild reactions to mosquito bites, some individuals may have more severe allergic responses. One such condition is known as Skeeter Syndrome.

What is Skeeter Syndrome?

Skeeter Syndrome is a rare allergic reaction to mosquito bites, characterized by more intense symptoms than typical bites. People with this condition may experience:

• Intense itching or pain at the bite site
• Significant swelling (2-10 cm in diameter)
• Warmth around the affected area
• Bruise-like appearance
• Small blisters near the bite

These symptoms usually develop within hours of being bitten and worsen over 8-12 hours. Full recovery may take up to 10 days.

Severe Mosquito Bite Allergies

In rare cases, some individuals may experience a full-body allergic reaction to mosquito bites. Symptoms of a severe mosquito bite allergy can include:

• Hives
• Enlarged lymph nodes
• Joint stiffness
• Fever and chills
• Severe headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Confusion
• Fatigue
• Muscle weakness
• Anaphylaxis (extremely rare)

If you experience any of these severe symptoms after a mosquito bite, seek medical attention immediately.

Are You a Mosquito Magnet? Factors That Attract Mosquitoes

Have you ever wondered why mosquitoes seem to prefer certain people over others? Research has shown that various factors can make some individuals more attractive to these pesky insects.

Blood Type Preferences

A study conducted by the United States National Institutes of Health (NIH) found that certain mosquito species show preferences for specific blood types:

1. Type O blood (most preferred)
2. Type A blood
3. Type B and AB blood

However, it’s important to note that this study focused on only one mosquito species, and other factors also play a role in attracting mosquitoes.

Other Factors That Attract Mosquitoes

Beyond blood type, several other factors can make you more appealing to mosquitoes:

• Body chemistry: Higher levels of ammonia and lactic acid in sweat
• Body temperature: Genetically higher body temperatures or elevated temperatures due to exercise, fever, or pregnancy
• Clothing color: Dark colors like black, dark blue, or red
• Alcohol consumption: Studies have shown that drinking beer can increase mosquito attraction

Effective Mosquito Repellents: What Works Best?

Protecting yourself from mosquito bites is crucial for both comfort and health reasons. With numerous repellent options available, it’s essential to know which ones are most effective.

Picaridin vs. DEET: Which is More Effective?

Two of the most recommended mosquito repellents are picaridin and DEET. Here’s how they compare:

Picaridin:

• Creates a shield on the skin, blocking mosquitoes’ ability to locate human skin
• Odorless and non-greasy
• Can last 8-10 hours
• Safe for children 3 months and older

DEET:

• Effectiveness depends on concentration
• 10% DEET provides about 2 hours of protection
• 30% DEET can last up to 5 hours
• Safe for children 2 months and older (10-30% concentration)

Overall, picaridin is often considered more effective and potentially less toxic than DEET. However, both can be effective when used properly.

Natural Mosquito Repellents: Do They Work?

While chemical repellents like picaridin and DEET are proven effective, some people prefer natural alternatives. Here are some natural options that may offer some protection against mosquitoes:

• Oil of lemon eucalyptus
• Citronella oil
• Peppermint oil
• Neem oil
• Lavender

It’s important to note that while these natural repellents may provide some protection, they typically don’t last as long as chemical alternatives and may need to be reapplied more frequently.

Mosquito Activity Patterns: When Are You Most at Risk?

Many people believe mosquitoes are only active during dawn and dusk, but this isn’t entirely accurate. While some mosquito species are indeed more active during these times, others can be active throughout the day or night.

Daytime vs. Nighttime Mosquitoes

Different mosquito species have varying activity patterns:

• Aedes mosquitoes (including those that can transmit Zika virus) are often active during the day
• Culex mosquitoes (potential carriers of West Nile virus) are generally more active from dusk to dawn
• Anopheles mosquitoes (malaria vectors) are typically most active from dusk to dawn

Given these varied patterns, it’s important to take precautions against mosquito bites throughout the day and night, especially in areas known for mosquito-borne diseases.

Preventing Mosquito Bites: Practical Tips and Strategies

While using repellents is an effective way to avoid mosquito bites, there are several other strategies you can employ to reduce your risk of being bitten.

Environmental Control

• Eliminate standing water around your property, as this is where mosquitoes breed
• Keep your lawn and bushes trimmed to reduce mosquito resting areas
• Use mosquito nets when sleeping outdoors or in areas without proper window screens
• Install or repair window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out of your home

Personal Protection

• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors, especially during peak mosquito hours
• Choose light-colored clothing, as mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors
• Avoid using scented products, as some fragrances can attract mosquitoes
• Consider using mosquito-repelling plants in your garden, such as citronella grass, marigolds, or lavender

Treating Mosquito Bites: Home Remedies and Over-the-Counter Solutions

Despite our best efforts, mosquito bites can still occur. When they do, there are several ways to alleviate the itching and discomfort.

Effective Home Remedies for Mosquito Bites

• Apply a cold compress or ice pack to reduce swelling and numb the area
• Make a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the bite
• Use aloe vera gel for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties
• Try dabbing a small amount of honey on the bite for its antimicrobial effects
• Apply a mixture of equal parts apple cider vinegar and water

Over-the-Counter Treatments

For more persistent itching or discomfort, consider these over-the-counter options:

• Hydrocortisone cream to reduce inflammation and itching
• Oral antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or cetirizine (Zyrtec) to relieve itching
• Calamine lotion to soothe the skin and reduce irritation
• After-bite sticks or pens containing ammonia or baking soda

Remember, while scratching may provide temporary relief, it can lead to skin damage and increase the risk of infection. Try to resist the urge to scratch and focus on treating the bite instead.

Mosquito-Borne Diseases: Understanding the Risks

While most mosquito bites are merely annoying, some can transmit serious diseases. Being aware of these risks can help you take appropriate precautions, especially when traveling to areas where these diseases are prevalent.

Common Mosquito-Borne Diseases

• Malaria: Caused by Plasmodium parasites, transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes
• Dengue fever: Viral infection spread by Aedes mosquitoes
• Zika virus: Transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, can cause birth defects if contracted during pregnancy
• West Nile virus: Spread by Culex mosquitoes, often asymptomatic but can cause severe neurological issues in some cases
• Chikungunya: Viral disease transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, causing fever and joint pain
• Yellow fever: Viral infection spread by Aedes mosquitoes, can cause severe liver disease

Preventing Mosquito-Borne Diseases

To reduce your risk of contracting these diseases, follow these guidelines:

• Use effective mosquito repellents consistently
• Wear protective clothing, especially when traveling to high-risk areas
• Sleep under mosquito nets in areas where these diseases are common
• Stay informed about disease outbreaks in areas you plan to visit
• Consider preventive medications (like antimalarials) when traveling to high-risk regions
• Get vaccinated against diseases like yellow fever when appropriate

By understanding mosquito behavior, taking preventive measures, and knowing how to treat bites effectively, you can enjoy outdoor activities with less worry about these pesky insects. Remember, while mosquitoes can be a nuisance, with the right knowledge and precautions, you can significantly reduce your risk of bites and potential mosquito-borne diseases.

The Best Ways to Avoid a Mosquito Bite & How to Recover Quickly

Warm weather means the return of pesky mosquitoes. Preventing mosquito bites can be tricky and dealing with the itch afterward is annoying. Did you know some people are more susceptible to being bitten? Jesse Becker, ARNP, UnityPoint Health, answers seven common mosquito questions and gives her list of mosquito bite home remedies to stop the itching, fast.

Why Does a Mosquito Bite Itch?

Mosquitoes usually feed on nectar, sap and other sweet substances, but the female bugs need the additional nourishment of blood to lay eggs. That makes us a nice, big target.

“When a mosquito bites, it buries its entire snout into your skin. This snout isn’t just a single tube, but rather six mouthparts all working together to grip the flesh, pierce the skin and drive the central needle (2 parallel tubes) into your skin. Then one tube injects saliva while the other tube takes the blood out,” Becker says. 

The body’s immune system kicks into gear and releases a histamine in response to the bug’s salvia. The histamine is a defense mechanism your body uses to fight infection and help heal. 

“With the saliva in your body and the histamine released, your body responds with a small area of swelling and itching – a mosquito bite. Most people have a minimal response and notice small, pink, itchy bumps within 20 minutes of the bite. The itching usually peaks within 24-48 hours. The bite generally fades over three-to-four days. It may take up to a week to completely heal. Unfortunately, some people experience mosquito bites worse than others.

Can You Be Allergic to Mosquito Bites?

Skeeter syndrome is a rare condition caused by an allergic reaction to a mosquito’s bite. Those who suffer from it often develop a moderate-to-severe local allergic reaction. Symptoms of skeeter syndrome include:

• Itchy or painful area of redness
• Swelling measuring 2 to more than 10 cm in diameter
• Warm to the touch
• Bruise-like appearance
• Tiny blisters near the bite

The symptoms usually develop within hours of being bitten and get progressively worse over 8-12 hours. It may take up to 10 days to completely heal.

In addition to skeeter syndrome, some people may also suffer from a severe mosquito bite allergy, which would result in a full-body allergic reaction. Becker says this type of reaction is what most think of when talking about an “allergic reaction” to a mosquito bite. Symptoms could include:

• Hives
• Enlarged lymph nodes
• Joint stiffness
• Fever/chills
• Severe headache
• Nausea/vomiting
• Confusion
• Fatigue/tiredness
• Muscle weakness
• Anaphylaxis (throat swelling) (very rare)

Do Mosquitoes Prefer a Certain Human Blood Type?

The United States National Institutes of Health (NIH) conducted a study observing the landing preference of a certain type of mosquito. The study looked at blood types A, B, AB and O.

• Top Preference: Type O blood
• Second Preference: Type A blood

Becker says the mosquitoes used in the study are just one type of mosquito, so if you have a blood type that’s not listed you should still be cautious. However, it’s not just blood type luring mosquitoes your direction.

“Substances, such as ammonia and lactic acid, found in sweat are known to attract mosquitoes. Mosquitoes are also attracted to people with genetically higher body temperatures, people who are exercising, people with a fever or those who are pregnant. Wearing black, dark blue or red clothing can also make you a mosquito magnet. One study even showed mosquitoes are attracted to people who’ve been drinking beer,” Becker says.

Are All Mosquito Repellents Equally Effective?

Mosquito repellents come in a variety of forms – sprays, creams, natural solutions, stickers, etc. While some prove useful, others lack effectiveness. Mosquito repellents containing picaridin and DEET are the most recommended forms of prevention.

“Picaridin blocks a mosquito’s ability to locate human skin by creating a shield on the skin. Another perk, picaridin is odorless, doesn’t leave a residue and can last 8-10 hours. It can be applied safely to children 3 months and older,” Becker says.  

Overall, when comparing DEET and picaridin, Becker recommends a product with picaridin since it can be considered more effective and potentially less toxic. If you are selecting a DEET product, consider the concentration.

“The higher the DEET concentration, the longer lasting the protection. A product with 10 percent DEET provides protection for about two hours, while products with 30 percent DEET last up to five hours. Repellents containing 10-30 percent DEET can be used on children ages 2 months and above,” Becker says.

Regardless of which type of repellent you use, it’s a good idea to wash it off once you go indoors.

Are Mosquitoes Only Out During Peak Times of Early Morning and Evening?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), mosquitoes carrying different diseases are active at different times of the day.

According to the CDC, there are more than 200 types of mosquitoes living in the U. S. Of those, only about 12 spread germs that make people sick. Most are considered nuisance mosquitoes. However, since you can’t control which mosquito bites you, the best way to prevent mosquito bites is to always use repellent when outside for any length of time.

Can Mosquitoes Spread COVID-19?

There is no data to suggest that mosquitoes can spread COVID-19. In a study from 2020, research found the virus couldn’t replicate in the cells of a mosquito. Researchers with the same study also collected more than one-thousand mosquitoes in the Chinese city where the outbreak was first identified. Those mosquitoes all tested negative for the virus. 

“COVID-19 is a respiratory virus that mainly spreads person-to-person when an infected person breathes out very small droplets that contain the virus. Other people breathe in those droplets or they land in another person’s eyes, nose or mouth. That’s why people who are closer than six feet from the infected person are more likely to get sick,” Becker says.  

If You Scratch a Mosquito Bite, Will it Stop Itching?

Depending on how your body reacts to mosquito bites, scratching might seem like the only option. But, itching a mosquito bite can prolong the healing process.

“As hard as it can be, don’t itch them! Scratching mosquito bites just makes them itch more and increases the risk of developing a skin infection. If you scratch too much and break the skin open, a bacterial skin infection can develop, which will require a visit to urgent care or UnityPoint Clinic – Express,” Becker says.

Instead of scratching, apply an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to help take away the itch.

Here are additional signs it’s time to visit urgent care:

• Wide area of redness around the initial bite
• Noticeable swelling beyond what’s seen after the initial bite
• A yellow, creamy discharge (pus) from the bite
• Worsening pain at the site of the bite
• Fever/chills
• Red lines streaking away from the bite
• Increased warmth when touching the bite

9 Expert-Recommended Mosquito Bite Home Remedies 

Once you realize you’ve become the victim of a mosquito bite, the area should be washed thoroughly with soap and water to remove any saliva and bacteria. If the typical over-the-counter anti-itch items don’t help, Becker suggests trying something from her list of mosquito bite home remedies.

• Ice. The cold causes constriction of blood vessels reducing flow to the area. It’ll reduce swelling and itching.
• Oatmeal. It can relieve both itching and swelling due to the oats’ compounds (avenanthramides and polyphenols). Applying it can be difficult but try mixing it with equal parts water and whipping into a paste. Apply to the bite and leave it on for at least 10 minutes.
• Honey. It’s been found by researchers to have soothing properties. By applying a small drop, it’ll reduce swelling and aid in healing and preventing infection.
• Aloe Vera. The gel contains hormones (called auxins and gibberellin) that help heal wounds, soothe irritation and reduce inflammation. Use aloe from the store or open a small section of the plant and apply directly to your bite.
• Onions. Quercetin (plant pigment) found in onions can act as a powerful anti-inflammatory. When eaten, they can also prevent cells from releasing histamine. (If you remember, this is the process initiated when bitten by the mosquito.) Grab an onion, slice it open and apply it directly to the bite. Once you notice relief, rinse the area well.
• Garlic. While it contains both antiseptic and antibacterial properties, it can also be used to minimize inflammation and soothe skin. When crushed or chopped, the active ingredient (allicin) is released. Unfortunately, allicin is also the reason garlic smells so strong. To reduce the stench, try mixing the crushed pieces with your favorite smelling essential oil or even coconut oil before applying to the bite.
• Essential Oils. These can be used to soothe itching and decrease swelling. Basil, thyme, peppermint, lavender, clove, geranium, white camphor and citronella oils are all good choices for mosquito bites.
• Toothpaste. The active ingredients of menthol and baking soda relieve itching, soothe irritation and reduce inflammation.
• Witch Hazel. This product causes contraction of the skin, leading to a reduction in inflammation and a soothing sensation. You can purchase this product as pads or liquid and apply it as often as needed.

Why Do Mosquito Bites Itch? Information on Mosquito Bites

When you think about summer, things like barbecues and beach trips joyously come to mind. However, besides all of the fun in the sun, the season is also known as a prime time for mosquitoes. These pests can put a damper on any summertime activity, causing itchy red bumps and are capable of transferring serious diseases such as West Nile virus, Zika virus, eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) and more within the U.S.

Most people are familiar with the sometimes maddening itching sensation of a mosquito bite. But why do mosquito bites itch, and why do they bite people in the first place?

Why do mosquitoes bite?

Mosquitoes that bite need the protein found in blood to nourish their developing eggs. Therefore, only female mosquitoes bite. Biting mosquitoes use several different ques to locate a host including the carbon dioxide we exhale, heat, and body odor. In fact, there are certain factors that make some people more attractive to mosquitoes than others.

Why do mosquito bites itch?

When a mosquito bites, it uses its straw-like mouthparts to pierce the skin and draw blood. While doing so, the mosquito injects some of its own saliva, which contains an anticoagulant and certain proteins. The anticoagulant prevents blood from clotting around the mosquito’s mouth, which could cause it to get stuck. The proteins released by the mosquito trigger the body’s immune system, which releases histamine, a compound that enables white blood cells to access the affected area. The increased blood flow and white blood cell count brought on by histamine cause inflammation and swelling. Histamine also sends a signal to the nerves surrounding the bite, which is what ultimately causes mosquito bites to itch.

While some people may experience this well-known itchiness, others may not even realize that they’ve been bitten. Some adults have no reaction to mosquito bites at all. Adults consistently exposed to the same types of mosquitoes can develop somewhat of a resistance to the protein, leading to lowered immune system responses and less itching. However, people traveling to new places and encountering different mosquito species are likely to experience itchy reactions.

Does scratching make mosquito bites itch more?

Scratching a mosquito bite will likely make the itching sensation worse by increasing the inflammation. Furthermore, scratching a bite can also increase the risk of infection if it breaks the skin.

Preventing Mosquito Bites

In order to stay bite and itch-free, make sure to eliminate any areas of standing water around the property, such as flowerpots, birdbaths and grill covers, as these are ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Females lay their eggs inside items that can hold as little as a half inch of water, which means something as small as a bottle cap can hold enough water for larvae to develop! Homeowners should also screen all windows and doors, repairing even the smallest hole. Additionally, many mosquito species are most active during dusk and dawn, so minimize time spent outside during these times. When outdoors, wear long pants and sleeves when possible and be sure to apply insect repellent containing an EPA-registered ingredient like DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon-eucalyptus. Although it may seem simple, there actually is a right and a wrong way to apply insect repellent.

If mosquito populations are out of control on your property, contact a licensed pest control professional to effectively deal with the problem.

Mosquito bite allergy: causes and symptoms

Mosquito bites are a minor nuisance, but there are those for whom mosquitoes become a real threat to life.

Today we will figure out why there is an allergy to mosquito bites and how to mitigate its manifestation.

What is a mosquito bite?

Not many people know, but mosquitoes need blood not at all for food, but for reproduction. The more blood is drunk, the more eggs the female can lay.

To bite and prevent blood clotting, mosquitoes inject a special anticoagulant substance, which then causes itching and redness of the skin. These are usually the maximum effects after a bite, but if a person is prone to allergies to insect bites, then the symptoms can be much more serious.

The following signs indicate the development of an allergic reaction:

• Rash gradually spreading to other parts of the body;
• Dizziness;
• Sudden weakness;
• Difficulty breathing, wheezing;
• Pain in chest or abdomen;
• Increased heart rate;
• Nausea;
• Severe swelling, even if it develops far enough from the bite.

If these signs appear, you should immediately consult a doctor. This condition can threaten not only health, but also life.

Mosquito bite allergy causes

As with any other allergic reaction, there are several main causes:

– Hypersensitivity to certain stimuli. Often, weakened immunity, bad habits, and metabolic disorders lead to such reactions;

– genetic predisposition. Poor tolerance of bites of blood-sucking parasites by one of the parents increases the likelihood of developing an allergy in a child.

Is an allergic mosquito bite dangerous?

Depending on the severity, allergic bites are divided into local, general and severe forms.

So, a local reaction is most often manifested by Skeeter’s syndrome. The bite area turns red, swelling and fever appear. 12 hours after the bite, the state of health may deteriorate sharply.

The general reaction is accompanied by an increase in lymph nodes, the appearance of a rash, and general malaise.

In severe forms of the reaction, one may experience nausea, vomiting, a drop in blood pressure, and in extreme cases, anaphylactic shock.

Remember that if an atypical reaction to a bite manifested itself for the first time, this does not necessarily indicate an allergy. Sometimes mosquitoes can cause diseases such as malaria, encephalitis or yellow fever.

Fact: You cannot get HIV from a mosquito bite. Firstly, the virus is not adapted to life in the body of an insect, and secondly, during a bite, a mosquito does not inject blood into the body of its victim.
How to prevent mosquito bite allergy?

It is important to remember that even the bite of a mosquito or any other insect that is familiar to you must be monitored minimally to prevent infection. If you were bitten by a mosquito, and the place is very reddened and itchy, then treat it, and if necessary, consult an allergist. To reduce the chance of being bitten, use protective creams and sprays, wear covered clothing, and place mosquito nets on windows.

ointment to quickly relieve swelling and redness

05 August 2020 16:00

Society

Seven safe folk remedies that will save you from itching after mosquito bites of a child and an adult.

Mosquitoes cause a lot of trouble in summer. It is almost impossible not to meet them on a walk and even in your own house. And if the bloodsucker bites, the itchy spot causes serious discomfort. How to quickly deal with the consequences of a bite? We offer safe folk remedies for itching after mosquito bites, which can be safely used by children and adults prone to allergic reactions.

Why does a mosquito bite itch? The insect injects an anticoagulant under the skin that prevents blood from clotting. Our immunity recognizes foreign bodies as a threat and attacks with immune cells. Because of this, the temperature at the site of the bite rises, the skin changes color, there is a seal that itches and itches.

In people with normal immunity, the edema disappears after two or three days, even if the bite is not treated with anything. In allergy sufferers, it can be more intense, up to 10 cm in diameter, and last much longer.

Children are particularly susceptible to severe allergic reactions to mosquito bites. The skin of babies is thin, the immunity is still immature, so the bite site swells a lot. A large hot bump develops that does not go away for several days, and the red spot can persist for up to several months. But what is more dangerous – the itchy place just wants to be scratched, and the kids cannot fight this urge. Combing mosquito bites, children bring bacteria into them, inflammation and suppuration develop. This can lead to unpleasant complications: the appearance of abscesses on the skin; the development of streptoderma – an infectious skin disease in which the skin is affected by streptococcus bacteria, and multiple itchy and weeping spots appear on the body.

Therefore, mosquito bites in children must be treated. It is important to relieve itching and redness as soon as possible in order to prevent scratching and infection of the wounds. In addition, the sooner you treat the blister, the more likely it will go down faster and there will be no trace of it.

Folk remedies for itching after mosquito bites for a child

It is not necessary to use pharmacy remedies to help your baby get rid of an itchy spot. You can get by with absolutely safe, folk. Here are seven tools that work flawlessly.

1. Ice. The temperature at the site of the swelling rises as the body tries to suppress the infection. Cool compresses and lotions can reduce the temperature in the affected area and reduce the severity of an allergic reaction. Use regular ice, but don’t use it on your skin. Wrap it in a scarf in several layers and apply to the blister for 10-15 minutes. If the baby complains that he is uncomfortable and too cold, increase the number of layers of fabric. The coolness from the compress should be pleasant. Ice lotions work as a local “anesthesia” – they relieve redness, swelling and reduce the sensation of itching.

2. Soda compress. It cools and disinfects the bite site. Prepare a solution of soda at the rate of one teaspoon to half a glass of water. Thoroughly soak a bandage, cotton wool or cotton pad in it and apply to the affected area. If there are a lot of blisters, lubricate them with soda solution. In the first hours, the remedy is especially effective. It will help, and if itching appears a few days after the bite as a delayed immune response.

3. Vinegar solution. Another safe folk remedy is a weak solution of vinegar. Dilute a tablespoon in a third of a glass of water 9-% vinegar. Treat the affected areas with the resulting solution. The acid present in it relieves irritation. Place a cotton swab soaked in the solution on the blister to cool it and relieve any discomfort.

4. Sour cream. Sour-milk products reduce skin inflammation and soothe it, and relieve itching in mosquito bites. Apply sour cream or kefir to the blisters, leave until completely absorbed. While the “lotion” is cool, there is no desire to comb the blister. When the mass dries, lubricate the bites again. Repeat three or four times until the child feels better.

5. Tea bags. Brew black tea, leave the bag in boiling water for a few minutes, then remove from the cup and cool. Apply to the affected area and leave for 10-15 minutes. Tea leaves contain tannins. They have a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect and well relieve local skin irritation.

6. Calendula tincture. If the bites are few, treat them with an alcohol solution of calendula. Alcohol disinfects the inflammatory focus and reduces redness, swelling, and calendula fights pathogenic microflora and dries the wounds. Use a cotton swab for treatment, apply the product pointwise – directly on the seal. It is not necessary to wipe large areas of the child’s skin, since alcohol dries it, and in young children, treating the body with an alcohol solution can cause poisoning.

7. Clay mask. If you have cosmetic clay, white or blue, use it to reduce the inflammatory response in the baby. Dilute the clay with water in the usual proportion to the state of a thick slurry and apply to inflamed areas. Leave to dry completely and do not remove when crusts form. Under such a compress, the skin remains moisturized, and the active substances of the clay fight the inflammatory reaction.

Ordinary brilliant green will help to remove itching, reduce swelling and redness, and also prevent the development of bacterial complications. Rub it on the blisters for three to five days until the lumps disappear.

How to anoint the skin after mosquito bites for adults

You can use the same safe folk remedies recommended for children. And phytopreparations that can be found in your home first aid kit.

Tea tree oil. It has a pronounced antiseptic effect, relieves irritation well, reduces swelling and helps to suppress the bacterial microflora at the site of the bite. Apply tea tree oil with a Q-tip to the blisters. The product has a pronounced odor, after application, the place may tingle or burn. This reaction wears off after a few minutes.

Make sure you are not allergic to tea tree essential oil before use. Use confidently if you have already used it before in cosmetic, care procedures. Or test the reaction to the product on a small area of ​​​​skin: apply to the back of the hand, wait five minutes. If irritation does not occur, the product is suitable for you.

Alcohol solution. It can be boric, salicylic alcohol, regular cologne or vodka. Alcohol means reduce the intensity of inflammation and relieve itching. Wipe the bites with a cotton pad soaked in alcohol solution or apply it pointwise with a cotton swab.

Folk remedies for the prevention of insect bites

To prevent mosquitoes and midges from baking outside, wear light, closed cotton clothing for a walk. If the baby is in a stroller, cover it with a mosquito net. Mosquitoes are repelled by intense smells: coniferous – cypress, juniper; floral – geraniums, lavenders, chrysanthemums; fresh – mint and lemon balm; citrus fruits – lemon, orange.

If you and your child are not allergic to essential oils, use them as natural repellants. Put a few drops of oil on the handkerchief and place it on the stroller. If the child is older, the oil can be applied to a bracelet, belt or scarf and put on a fragrant protective accessory for the baby before going outside.