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What to Put on Bites to Relieve Itching

Warm weather in the spring, summer and fall may entice you into the outdoors, but it also brings insects like mosquitoes and black flies out of hibernation. These pests can't wait to get a taste of human blood, and the bites they leave behind when they feast are usually painful at first before settling into a swollen, itchy wound. Scratching these bites can lead to infection, but there are many remedies to safely relieve itching.

  1. Topical Antihistamines

    • Your local drug store will likely carry an assortment of itch relief products. Many of these creams and ointments contain antihistamines, which counteract the effect of histamine, a naturally occurring chemical that causes the itching and swelling associated with insect bites and allergic reactions. Topical antihistamines usually contain diphenhydramine, but they do not penetrate the skin well and while they may temporarily relieve the itching and redness of an insect bite, they are not the most effective treatment.

    Chemical Home Remedies

    • Some commercial itch relief products rely on anti-itch chemicals rather than antihistamine medications. The active ingredient in these products is ammonia, which helps relieve itching. Ammonia is also the active ingredient in nail polish remover, which is more diluted and less harsh than straight ammonia. To save money on itch relief products with a singular use, dab a small amount of nail polish remover or other ammonia-based product onto insect bites using a cotton swab. Bleach can also have an itch-relieving effect, but should be used carefully and sparingly. Mouthwashes act as antiseptics to kill bacteria in your mouth, and can also kill germs and bacteria on your skin and relieve itching from a bite.

    Natural Home Remedies

    • Some products you have around the house may offer relief from irritated insect bites. Vinegar has been used for thousands of years as a natural antiseptic to kill bacteria and relieve skin irritation. Apple cider or regular white vinegar both work. Dab a small amount on your insect bites. Because vinegar is natural, you can apply as often and as liberally as you like, as long as you can stand the strong odor.

    Other Home Remedies

    • A hot shower will also help cleanse irritants from the skin and reduce itching, but be careful not to burn yourself. Alternatively, apply ice or a cold compress to bites. Sealing off the bite from open air will reduce the itch as well. Cover with a piece of cellophane tape or use liquid bandages, or as a last result, a thin layer of clear nail polish applied directly over the bite.

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