When it’s dengue and malaria season, the mosquitoes are on the prowl. And when a mosquito feeds on our blood, it leaves small annoying bumps on our skin. The feeding process involves the small, flying insect piercing our skin and injecting saliva into it. The bumps and itching that you notice after a mosquito bites you, are the results of our body reacting to the saliva. Using water and soap to wash the bite and the area around it is the first thing you should do. You can follow it up with an over-the-counter anti-itch cream to get some relief from itching. You can also go for home remedies for mosquito bites by using natural ingredients like cucumber, oatmeal and banana peel to get relief from itching.

Why do mosquito bites itch?

Mosquito bites are the result of female mosquitoes piercing our skin to feed on our blood. When a mosquito bites, it injects saliva containing anticoagulants and proteins into the skin, which can cause an immune response, says cosmetologist and skin expert Dr Jatin Mittal. When a mosquito bites us, our immune system releases compounds known as histamines that trigger itchiness, and swelling, according to a research published in Frontiers in 2022.

What are the best home remedies for mosquito bites?

If you don’t want to go for over-the-counter creams, you can try the homes remedies:

1. Ice pack

Applying a cold compress or ice pack can numb the area, reducing swelling and itchiness. The cold pack manages to constrict blood vessels, which helps in reducing inflammation. Apply an ice pack or a cold, wet cloth to the affected area for 5 to 10 minutes to relieve itchy skin, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

2. Apple cider vinegar

Dab a small amount of apple cider vinegar on the bite. Its acidic nature can help reduce swelling and alleviate itching, says the expert. It can also work as a natural disinfectant if you have been scratching a lot.

3. Toothpaste

Toothpaste is not just for oral health, as it can be used to deal with itchy skin. Take a little bit of toothpaste and apply it to the mosquito bite. Go for menthol or peppermint flavour, as these ingredients have cooling effect and so, can provide immediate relief from itching.

4. Onion

The health benefits of onions are many. They have natural anti-inflammatory properties, so they can help reduce swelling and itching. Just rub a slice of onion on the bite to get relief, says the expert.

5. Cucumber

Cucumber is known for its ability to provide a cooling effect, which is a great way to reduce itching. Cut a cucumber and place the slices on the affected area. Withing minutes, you will feel less itchy.

6. Basil

It contains camphor and thymol, which can relieve itching, says Dr Mittal. You can crush fresh basil leaves and apply the paste to the bite. Another way to use basil is to rub the leaves directly on the skin.

7. Witch hazel

Witch hazel consists of tannins, which can help in reducing inflammation on skin. Using it topically, not only reduces inflammation, but also soothes the burning and irritation that are associated with mosquito bites. Apply witch hazel extract directly to the mosquito bite with a cotton ball.

8. Garlic

It has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which are useful in getting relief from itch. Crush a garlic clove and mix with a small amount of coconut oil. Apply it to the bite and leave it on for a few minutes then rinse it off.

9. Oatmeal

You should use oatmeal for skin, as it can have a lot of uses. It can relieve itching and swelling because it has an anti-irritant quality. Make an oatmeal paste, by mixing equal parts of oatmeal and water. Apply it to the skin and leave it on for 10 minutes then wash it off.

10. Banana peel

Banana peel contains natural oils and compounds that can reduce itching and swelling, says the expert. Rub the inside of a banana peel on the mosquito bite for a few minutes to reduce the bump.

11. Baking soda

A mixture of baking soda and water can help reduce itching, as per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Mix one tablespoon of baking soda with a little bit of water to create a paste. Apply the paste to the mosquito bite, wait for 10 minutes then wash it off.

People with sensitive skin or open wounds or those allergic to these ingredients, should avoid using these home remedies. That is why performing a patch test before using a new remedy on a larger area is essential.

How to prevent mosquito bites?

To prevent mosquito bites, consider the following tips:

1. Use mosquito repellent

Apply a mosquito repellent containing ingredients like DEET, and picaridin, to exposed skin, says the expert. Follow the instructions on the label of the product for safe and effective use.

2. Watch what you are wearing

Cover your skin by wearing long-sleeved tops, long pants, dresses, socks, and closed-toe shoes. Covering yourself is more important during peak mosquito activity times, such as dawn and dusk.

3. Avoid stagnant water

We all know that mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, so regularly empty, cover, or treat any containers or areas where water collects. It can be your flowerpots, gutters, or bird baths.

4. Use mosquito nets

If you are sleeping outdoors or in areas with high mosquito activity, use bed nets that are treated with insecticide. This will help to create a barrier between you and mosquitoes, says the expert.

There are just a few steps you need to take to prevent mosquito bites. But if you still get bitten by them, go for these natural remedies to help soothe the skin and reduce the discomfort caused by mosquito bites. But before trying any new treatments, do a patch test or contact a dermatologist.