Say Goodbye to Bug Bites: Proven Tips for Instant Relief!
Can you feel that sizzling heat? The kind that makes you think twice about stepping outside? Seriously, it’s so humid that my apartment has become my personal sanctuary! But guess what? I finally mustered up the courage to venture out (give me a round of applause, please!) and rented a car for an epic mountain hike (yes, another round of applause!). I was chasing those sweet endorphins after a long five-mile trek (woohoo!), but I also came home with some unwelcome guests—annoying bug bites.
Growing up in the sweltering heat of Florida, you’d think I’d be immune to the swamps and the creepy-crawly critters that come with it. But let’s be honest, mosquitoes will always be my arch-nemesis!
While I’ve never had to deal with hives, my skin does have a tendency to throw a fit with fiery, itchy bumps that refuse to quit. By the time I made my way back from my mini Mount Everest adventure (okay, it was just five miles!), I was sporting a half-dozen bites and an intense urge to scratch them all off. But instead of giving in to the itch, I turned to these trusty tips:
1. Cleanse: The moment I stepped through my door, I jumped in the shower and gently scrubbed away all the dirt and grime from my bites with a soothing cleanser, like the Naturium Energizer Mandelic Acid Body Wash. Keeping those pesky bacteria at bay is key!
2. Soothe: After my shower, I applied an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream to the inflamed areas. It works wonders to calm irritation and alleviate that maddening itch. I used the CeraVe 1% Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Cream, but any drugstore brand will do the job!
3. Ice: The itchiness eased a little after the hydrocortisone, but if it gets too intense, I’ve got a secret weapon: ice! You can use an ice pack, or if you’re resourceful like me, just grab an ice cube wrapped in a paper towel (very chic!). Hold it on the inflamed area for a few minutes, and voila! If you want to step it up, try an ice roller, like the Doré Le Glaçon.
Now, a few days later, my bug bites are already starting to fade. Thank goodness!
Reader Question
How can I make seb derm and KP vanish for good?
— asks an Anonymous Reader
Dear Reader,
Unfortunately, both seborrheic dermatitis and keratosis pilaris are chronic conditions. What that means is they won’t just disappear overnight. However, there are treatments—both over-the-counter and prescription—that can help manage the symptoms. Before you start stocking up on dandruff shampoos and exfoliating body creams, I recommend consulting with a board-certified dermatologist to find a treatment plan that’s tailored just for you and your unique skin!
Got a burning skin-care question? Send one my way!
Editor’s Pick
BEST TINTED SUNSCREEN: Supergoop Protec(tint) Daily Skin Tint SPF 50
- Lightweight and super blendable texture
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Quick Tip
Planning to hang out outdoors this summer? Skip spritzing on your favorite fragrance before heading out—it could attract our buzzing friends, the mosquitoes. They’re particularly drawn to floral scents, so leave your beloved Delina behind and grab some DEET instead!
Book Club
Done and Dusted by Lyla Sage
🌶️🌶️🌶️ .5 out of 5
This book features a cowboy, a brother’s best friend, and a summer on a ranch that leads to a sizzling forbidden love story. I never thought I’d be into Western romances, but I devoured this novel in less than a day—definitely tuning in to that country station now! 🤠
