The bite from these tiny insects can leave an unsightly bump with a persistent itch that lasts for days. You may not feel their bite, but you'll sure suffer from it if you don't have the right remedy.
Mosquitoes are able to track humans and other animals down by smelling the carbon dioxide we exhale. They are drawn to human skin and breath which act as beacons for our blood.
Ever wonder why you get bombarded by mosquitoes, while your spouse does not?
Different blood types actually secrete different scents. While they're not obvious to humans, each blood type has it's own chemistry that emits a particular odour.
Mosquitoes do have a preference for different human scents. One study found that mosquitoes prefer people with Type O blood and choose people with Type A blood less often. Those with Type B are in the middle of the bite spectrum.
About 85 percent of humans secrete a chemical signal through their skin that actually advertises which type of blood they have, while 15 percent do not.
No matter what blood type you are, mosquitoes will find you particularly tasty if you secrete a chemical signal.
Find out how to cure that itch fast with home remedies that work!
So you've been bitten, now what?
If you haven't got any over the counter bug-bite cream, but you need some fast relief, there are a few home remedies that will at least momentarily cure the urge to scratch.
Try any one, or a combination of the following to ease the itch and get a good night's sleep!
1. Preparation H
It's not just for hemorrhoid. This takes care of swelling and itching associated with mosquito bites too! It will certainly reduce inflammation, but might not cut down on all of the itching - especially if you're particularly allergic.
2. Basil
It's a good idea to grow some basil in your garden, if you don't already. Not only does it repel mosquitoes, but it also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can cut down the swelling of those nasty bites!
3. Oatmeal Bath
Much like you did when you had chicken pox, soaking in a warm bath with about a cup of ground oats will help sooth your irritated skin.
4 . Aloe Vera
Found in most homes, the aloe vera plant is known for it's anti-inflammatory properties. It can heal minor cuts, ease infections and even be effective for healing bug bites.
Just cut open a leaf and apply the gel to the bug bite.
5. Alcohol, Witch Hazel and Hand Sanitizer
All three have antiseptic properties, so they can prevent bites from getting infected if you do end up scratching. Their stinging sensation is a good distraction from the itch too.
6. Hydrocortisone Cream
If all else fails, pull out the hydrocortisone ointment that contains about 1 percent hydrocortisone. It is a topical steroid that reduces chemical reactions that cause inflammation, redness and swelling.
While most commonly prescribed for eczema or psoriasis, it gets the job done for super itchy mosquito bites too!
[h/t Mosquitno / Healthline / Everyday Health / Smithsonian Magazine]