Why Do Mosquito Bites Itch? & How To Stop It

Why do mosquito bites itch so much? Thought understanding how the mosquito feeds in relation to our immune system we can reveal the answer.

When mosquitoes bite they feed by injecting saliva which contains proteins and anticoagulant. The anticoagulant stops the blood from cudgelling allowing the mosquito to feed until they are full. The proteins being foreign agents to the hosts body trigger the immune system which reacts by release histamine, a substance that directs white blood cells to the affected region. Histamine is the chemical that is responsible for swelling inflammation and aggravated itchiness.

In some cases a person can be bitten for the first and not have a itchy reaction because the immune system hasn't developed a response to the mosquitoes saliva. and a small percentage of people do not respond to bites at all while other develop stronger tolerance over time.

Why Do Mosquito Bites Itch More After You Scratch Them?

When you aggravate a mosquito bite by scratching it the affected area responds by becoming more inflamed. The skins responds to inflammation by itching, Here begins the a never ending cycle increasing the itching sensation. In the worst case scratching can break the skin leading to an infection which inevitably leads to even more itching.

Relief From Itchy Mosquito Bites

1. Clean Skin With Rubbing Alcohol

If you react quickly after receiving a mosquito bite by wiping the area with rubbing alcohol. Alcohol gives a cooling effect as it evaporated reducing the itching sensation. Be careful to no use to much alcohol as it can irritate the skin more.

2. Rub Honey Over The Mosquito Bites

Honey is a magic remedy! Its been shown to have antibacterial & antiseptic properties. Applying raw honey to mosquito, midge and other insect bites has been shown to minimise swelling and help stop infection. Be careful not to apply it outside as the sugar may attract more hungry mosquitoes.

3. Relax In An Oatmeal Bath

Yes thats right, simple oatmeal has many beneficial properties and some of them help soothe mosquito bites and allergic reactions, dry skin and chicken pox. Just pour a box into the bath or make a paste by mixing with water (maybe add a little honey) and spread over your itchy bites for 10-15 minuets for the full beneficially affect.

4. Green & Black Tea

Green & black tea has been shown to have anti inflammation properties. Simply soak a tea bag in water a place it in the fridge to cool down before placing it over the effective area to feel the benefits and relive your itching.

5. Basil Leaves

Basil contains its own chemical compounds that sooth itchy skin. Simply apply basil oil or lotion to irritated skin. You can easily make a home made batch. Simply bring about 2 cups of water to the boil, add 1/2 ounces of basil leaves and simmer for 10 minutes. Soak a cloth in the mixture and apply to the affected area. For fast treatment you can just rip up a handful of basil leave and rub on the skin.

6. Antihistamines

A fast a efficient way to reduce skin inflammation and itching is to take over the counter antihistamines. This will minimise your immune systems adverse reaction and reduce the levels of histamine in the blood.

7. Apply ointments containing lidocaine or benzocaine

Benzocaine and Lidocaine have numbing properties and can be found in many creams. They will provide temporary relief from irritation. Menthol & peppermint are also beneficial.

8. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera products have been proven to have anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties. Plus the cooling sensation of the gel soothes the itchiness.

9. Corticosteroid Cream

Medical professionals recommend corticosteroid creams to soothe itching. Corticosteroid also helps with inflammation and swelling, but do not apply to the face or open wounds.