Skin Care Tip – Insect Bites

Insect bites can be inevitable when living in Florida. Bug bite symptoms include redness, mild burning, localized and minor swelling or pain, and itching. Most bug bite symptoms last for about a day or so, and then slowly resolve.

For medium to severe swelling caused by bug bites, apply ice packs to the affected area. Use acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce the pain. Calamine lotions or creams that contain hydrocortisone help reduce the swelling and pain. You can also take OTC medications like Benadryl orally to reduce the itchiness.

Avoid scratching the affected areas to prevent aggravating or making the condition worse. If your bug bites come with other symptoms like fever, shortness of breath, nausea and/or vomiting, swelling of the face, lips, or throat, please seek immediate treatment.