How to Treat a Mosquito Bite
- Wash the infected area with soap and water as soon as you recognize that you’ve been bitten. Try to keep the site clean and dry until the irritation abates.
- Avoid scratching. Although a mosquito bite should itch for only a few days, continual scratching will increase your discomfort and may prolong the itching.
- Make a paste of baking soda and water, using just enough water to make the paste sticky. Spread the mixture on the bites.
- Rub soap directly on the bite. This is an oft-repeated home remedy for mosquito bites.
- Apply an ice pack or ice wrapped in a washcloth to the bite area.
- Use calamine lotion or a topical anesthetic containing pramoxine to help relieve pain and itching.
- Use an anti-inflammatory drug to reduce any accompanying swelling or redness.
- Take an anti-histamine to help with any swelling or itching.
- Do not rub skin, soak instead of scrubbing, and pat dry instead of rubbing.
- Use aloe vera gel to reduce swelling and itching. Aloe vera also forms a protective layer to reduce possible infection.
