How To Stop Mosquito Bites From Itching: Quick Relief Tips

Are you the mosquito magnet of your family? The one always getting bitten the second you step outside? Or, do you hate the itch mosquito bites bring? In either case, we’ve got a few mosquito bite relief tips to help stop mosquito bites from itching.

Why Are Mosquito Bites Itchy?

When a mosquito finds a host to bite, she uses her labium, a sensory mouthpart, to probe the skin for optimal sites to take a blood meal. Once she finds an area of the skin she likes, she will unsheathe her proboscis, a long, straw-like mouthpart that she uses to pierce the skin and suck up blood.

The probing and piercing of the skin may cause a ticklish or tingling feeling, but the itch occurs during the bite process. In order to suck up as much blood as she can, the mosquito will secrete saliva containing anticoagulants as she feeds. The anticoagulant compounds in the saliva prevent the blood from clotting, but the body detects these compounds as foreign invaders, and your immune response causes the skin to swell, get warm, and itch.

If you were getting itchy just reading the last paragraph, you’re not alone! Part of the itchiness that comes with mosquitoes is also psychological.

Mosquito Bite Relief

So, what can you do to stop pesky mosquito bites from itching? Thankfully, there are a few relief tips you can try:

• Wash the Bite Area

Running your bite under cool water can provide immediate relief and help clean the area. Keeping mosquito bites clean is important to prevent infection and further irritation. As tempting as it may be, don't scrub too hard when cleaning.

• Apply an Ice Pack

Ice packs help reduce swelling and dampen an itchiness or pain associated with the mosquito bite. Keep an ice pack on for 10 minutes at a time, and do not scratch or pick at your bite while icing.

• Baking Soda and Water

The CDC recommends applying a baking soda-water mixture to the bite area to reduce itching. Mix baking soda with just enough water to form a paste, apply it to the bite site, and leave it on for about 10 minutes before washing it off.

• Antihistamine Cream

For intense reactions to mosquito bites, antihistamine creams and medication may be the best solution. Consult with a medical professional before taking any new medication.

• Cover the Bite

Whether it’s with a bandage or long clothing, covering your bite can help you forget it’s there. Out of sight, out of mind, and out of the possibility you’ll scratch it and make it worse.

Remember – the best way to stop getting bitten by mosquitoes is to manage your mosquito problems. Dump out standing water, keep your yard tidy, and contact the pros at Mosquito Squad Plus to set up a routine, robust mosquito control plan.

The Best Relief Tip is Mosquito Control

Mosquitoes are ruthless - don’t let yourself become their next meal! Mosquito Squad Plus offers traditional and natural barrier treatments to manage the mosquitoes swarming your yard. Call a Squad near you today for a free quote and to schedule your next treatment. Services vary by location.