Bed bug bites are more than just an irritation. Left untreated they can cause considerable discomfort. For some of us bed bug bites can lead to sleepless nights, anxiety, and an uptick in stress.
The bites themselves present as small, red welts. They may appear in clusters or in isolation. These welts typically become itchy, inflamed and painful. If you’re suffering with the lingering effects of bed bug bites there are some simple paths to relief. There are a variety of simple home remedies that can soothe the skin, reduce inflammation, and prevent infection. The good news is most of the ingredients you’ll need for these treatments are already in your home.
Cold Compresses
The simplest of all home remedies for bed bug bites is the cold compress. The cool temperature helps to constrict blood vessels, reducing the selling and numbing the affected area. A cold compress can provide instant relief from the itching associated with bed bug bites.
Simply wrap some ice in a clean cloth and press it gently against the affected area for 10 to 15 minutes. Repeat throughout the day as needed. Be careful to not apply the ice directly to your skin as it can cause frostbite if left too long.
Baking Soda Paste
Baking soda paste is a tried and true remedy for a variety of skin irritations including bed bugs bites. Its alkaline properties helps to neutralize the pH of the skin which relieves itching. It also has mild antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that make it a go-to remedy of bed bug bite relief.
All you need is a tablespoon of baking soda and enough water to form a thick paste. Apply the paste directly to the affected area and leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes. Then simply rinse with warm water and pat dry. The paste can be applied 2 to 3 times throughout the day as needed for relief.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has long been a home remedy for a variety of ailments from sore throats to acid reflux. When diluted with water it can help reduce the itch and irritation associated with bed bug bites. The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar helps balance the pH levels of your skin. Meanwhile its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties help to reduce swelling and prevent infection.
All you need to do is dilute apple cider vinegar with equal parts water. Using a cotton ball or clean cloth apply the mixture to the bite affected areas. Let the solution sit for several minutes before rinsing with cool water. This process can be repeated throughout the day to keep itching and inflammation under control.
Oatmeal Baths
For bites on hard to reach areas an oatmeal bath can be very soothing. Oatmeal has long been used to relieve itching and inflammation caused by a variety of skin conditions including bug bites. It contains compounds called avenanthramides, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
To prepare an oatmeal bath add 1 to 2 cups of finely ground oatmeal to a lukewarm bath. Soak for up to half an hour and then gently pat your skin dry. Oatmeal baths can be used once a day to help relieve the itching and irritation associated with bed bug bites.
Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe Vera has been used to treat burns, bites and other skin conditions for centuries. Aloe contains vitamins, enzymes and amino acids that provide soothing, moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties. It is a nearly perfect all-natural way to calm irritate skin and reduce the redness and itching that comes from bed bug bites.
Aloe Vera gel can be found in health food stores and in many major supermarkets. Simply apply the gel liberally to the bed bug bites and let it dry on the skin. Rinse with cool water if necessary Aloe can be reapplied multiple times throughout the day to help relieve the itching and burning sensation associated with bed bug bites and to speed up the healing process.
Additional Tips for Managing Bed Bug Bites
These simple home remedies can help alleviate the itching and irritation that comes from bed bug bites. But it’s also important to take certain steps to protect yourself while they do their work.
First and foremost avoid scratching the bites as much as you can. Scratching can break the skin and increase your risk of infection. If the itching becomes to much to bear try an over-the-counter antihistamine cream. They can provide temporary relieve while the bites heal.
Secondly, we need to prevent further bites. Bed bugs are persistent creatures and the only way to stop the cycle is to eliminate these pests from your living space. In most cases that means contacting a professional pest control service. The sooner you eliminate the infestation the sooner you and your family can go back to bite-free nights and itch-free days.
Published by Scott Palatni
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