A mosquito buzzing in your ear is a short-lived annoyance, but the itch from their bite can be a lasting nuisance. Why do mosquito bites itch and how long do mosquito bites itch? Most important, you’re probably asking how to stop mosquito bites from itching.
Let the experts at Mosquito Joe answer these questions and more!
Why Do Mosquito Bites Itch?
The body’s immune system interprets the saliva from a mosquito’s bite as a foreign substance. This triggers the immune system to produce histamine in order to confront the infection. Histamine sends white blood cells and increased blood flow to the site of infection, which results in inflammation. This increased swelling and nerves in the surrounding area cause the mosquito bite to itch.
How Long Do Mosquito Bites Itch?
As the mosquito bite heals, the itching sensation subsides. The skin will take on a less red shade as the irritation dissipates. Typically, mosquito bites may itch from three to four days. This time period can differ from person to person and bite to bite.
How to Stop Mosquito Bites from Itching?
There are many tried-and-true methods to mitigate the itch of a mosquito bite such as calamine lotion or a hydrocortisone cream, but the methods people use in practice are seemingly endless!
Here are a few other home remedies to help with mosquito bite itch:
Don’t Itch
- While this may seem obvious, the less you scratch the bite, the less irritated and inflamed it will be.
Baking Soda Paste
- Mix one tablespoon of baking soda with enough water to form a paste. Apply to the bite and then wash off the mixture after 10 minutes.
Cool it Down
- A bag of ice or cold pack applied to a mosquito bite can reduce inflammation and thus lessen the itch.
Heat It Up
- The opposite treatment with the same goal. Applying heat to a bite may also work toward reducing inflammation and itch. Turn the shower up as high as you can stand and put that bite under the hot water.
Primrose Oil
- A natural remedy, applying primrose oil to a mosquito bite can help with swelling and itching.
Witch Hazel
- Witch hazel is another natural option. Applying a dab to an inflamed mosquito bite can lessen irritation and expedite healing.
Honey
- While not advised to wear outside (it can attract more bugs), a dab of honey can help soothe an itching bite.
Lime Juice
- Rub a slice of lemon or lime on the affected area to use as an anti-inflammatory.
If There’s No Bite, There’s No Itch
While there are remedies to address the itch, the best solution is to fight the bites before you get them! Contact or call Mosquito Joe today to make the first step toward a bite-free space with mosquito control!
