What to Do for Mosquito Bites That Itch

Not only are mosquito bites annoying, but scratching them too much could possibly damage your skin and cause a painful infection. While scientific studies show that some people are more attractive to mosquitoes than others, there are a few simple steps that everyone can take to help minimize the aggravating itch that often comes along with mosquito bites.

Topical Treatments and Creams

• Most experts recommend using a topical treatment, such as hydrocortisone cream, calamine lotion or antihistamine cream, to ease the itch of mosquito bites. The Mayo Clinic also suggests making a paste by mixing 1 teaspoon of water with an equal amount of dry meat tenderizer. Apply the homemade paste several times a day until the mosquito bite has stopped itching.

Oral Medication

• Oral antihistamines such as Benadryl are also an effective way to relieve itching associated with mosquito bites. Ask your doctor before taking an oral antihistamine along with using a topical antihistamine; using both at the same time could cause your body to absorb too much of the medicine.

Hot Water Therapy

• If you don't want to use topical or oral medication, you could try hot water therapy to reduce itching symptoms. This method involves heating water to about 120 degrees and washing the affected area with the hot water for several minutes. Talk to your child's pediatrician before using this method of treatment on small children because using water that is too hot could possibly damage their skin.

Ammonia Wash

• Ammonia is a common household cleaner and can be used to treat mosquito bites. Immediately after being bitten, wash the affected area with the ammonia and rinse it with cool tap water. This treatment can calm the itching and swelling associated with the mosquito bite. Be sure to use the ammonia in a well-ventilated area, and never allow the substance to come in contact with bleach.