How to Stop Mosquito Bites from Itching 9 Simple Remedies

Nothing ruins a summer night faster than a swarm of mosquitoes and their maddeningly itchy aftermath. That relentless need to scratch isn’t just irritating; it can also lead to inflammation, infection, and sleepless nights. So what can you do to soothe the itch once a mosquito’s made you its next meal?

Here are nine doctor-approved ways to relieve the itch and calm your skin, plus a few myths worth swatting away.

1. Try an Over-the-Counter Antihistamine

This is often the most effective treatment. According to dermatologists, antihistamines block histamine, the chemical your body releases in response to the bite that causes itching and swelling.

• Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) works quickly but may make you drowsy

• For daytime relief, try non-drowsy options like cetirizine (Zyrtec), fexofenadine (Allegra), or loratadine (Claritin)

2. Apply Ice

Ice isn't just for bruises. It numbs the skin and reduces inflammation, helping to quickly ease the discomfort of a bite.

• Apply an ice pack wrapped in a thin cloth for 10 minutes

• Rest, then repeat as needed

• Avoid putting ice directly on bare skin to prevent irritation

3. Dab on Calamine Lotion

An old-school favorite, calamine lotion cools as it evaporates, which can help ease that persistent itch.

• Reapply every couple of hours

• Works even better when paired with ice or antihistamines

4. Use a Baking Soda Paste

A quick DIY fix, baking soda helps neutralize the pH of your skin, potentially reducing itchiness.

• Mix 1 tablespoon baking soda with a few drops of water to make a paste

• Apply to the bite for 10 minutes, then rinse off

5. Try Cortisone Cream

Hydrocortisone cream is another go-to solution to reduce inflammation and irritation.

• Use twice daily for up to 10 days

• For severe bites, ask your doctor about prescription-strength options

6. Dab on a Little Honey

Not just for your tea honey has antibacterial properties and can soothe the bite. It may not stop the itch as quickly as other remedies, but it can help prevent infection.

• Apply a small amount and cover with a bandage if you're heading outdoors (it can attract more bugs)

7. Press a Cool Tea Bag Against It

A cold black tea bag offers a two-for-one punch: the cold helps with swelling, while tannins in the tea have anti-inflammatory effects.

• Soak the bag in cold water, then apply for 10 minutes

• Repeat as needed throughout the day

8. Soak in Oatmeal

If you’re dealing with multiple bites, an oatmeal bath can ease widespread itching.

• Add ground oatmeal or colloidal oatmeal to a lukewarm bath

• Soak for 15–20 minutes

• You can also apply a premade oatmeal-based lotion (like Aveeno) directly to bites

9. Apply Aloe Vera Gel

Known for its burn-soothing powers, aloe vera also cools and hydrates irritated skin.

• Keep a bottle in the fridge for added relief

• Apply several times a day to reduce itching and redness

What Doesn’t Really Work

Bug bite suction devices, like the popular Bug Bite Thing, claim to remove venom from the skin. But experts say there’s no strong evidence that they work. At best, they may increase blood flow, which could temporarily relieve inflammation.

And while slapping the bite might momentarily distract your nerves, it can actually increase inflammation. Better to slap on a remedy than your own skin.

When to See a Doctor

Most mosquito bites are harmless, but some need medical attention. Seek care if:

• The area becomes warm, red, or streaked (a sign of infection)

• You experience swelling beyond the bite, trouble breathing, or a rash this could signal a serious allergic reaction

The Bottom Line

A mosquito bite doesn’t have to mean hours of scratching and discomfort. With the right treatments from antihistamines and ice to honey and oatmeal baths you can soothe the itch and protect your skin from infection.

For more practical lifestyle tips and evidence-backed health advice, subscribe to our newsletter.