How to Get Rid of Itchy Mosquito Bites

Mosquito bites can cause itching so intense that it's hard to think of anything but the itch. Itching and redness at the site of the mosquito bite occur when your immune system responds to the proteins found in mosquito saliva. Although scratching may provide immediate relief, it doesn't permanently stop the itching and can lead to a serious skin infection called cellulitis. Over-the counter medication and home remedies can help you reduce annoying itching and redness until the bite heals.

Things You'll Need

• 3 tsp. baking soda
• 1 tsp. water
• Calamine lotion
• Ice
• Frozen vegetables
• Washcloth or towel
• Meat tenderizer
• Hydrocortisone cream
• Antihistamine
• Vitamin B-1

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Instructions

• 1

  Mix 3 tsp. of baking soda with 1 tsp. of water until the mixture reaches paste-like consistency. Apply the paste to the bite to reduce itching. Reapply the paste throughout the day as needed.

• 2

  Use calamine lotion, available over-the-counter, to the bite. Calamine lotion temporarily relieves itching. Apply enough calamine lotion to completely cover the bite.

• 3

  Apply ice to the bite for temporary relief of itching and redness. Keep ice on the bite for 10 to 20 minutes. Reapply as needed. Use a commercial ice pack, a bag of frozen vegetables or place an ice cube in a towel or washcloth.

• 4

  Combine equal parts of meat tenderizer with water to form a paste. Apply to the mosquito bite, reapplying as needed.

• 5

  Press on the bite with a fingernail or other hard object to temporarily stop itching. Keep steady pressure on the bite for up to 10 seconds.

• 6

  Place one percent hydrocortisone cream on the mosquito bite to ease itching. Hydrocortisone cream is available over-the-counter at drug, grocery and discount stores.

• 7

  Take an over-the-counter antihistamine if other treatment methods are unsuccessful in reducing itching. Look for antihistamines that contain such ingredients as loratadine, cetirizine, diphenhydramine or chlorpheniramine maleate. Follow dosage instructions on the medication.