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Luckily, we have insect bite cream for when we wind up with peskymosquito bitesdespite our best preventative efforts.
Anupong Thongchan / EyeEm / Getty Images
How do insect bite creams work?
Antihistamines, then, are meant to reduce this reaction.
Theyre available increamandgelforms, but Dr. Sadoff cautions that these can cause anallergic reactionon some peoples skin.
She suggests trying an oral antihistamine instead.
Common over-the-counter options include diphenhydramine, better known asBenadryl.
This translates to less redness, swelling, and itching, she says.
Dr. Sadoff recommends using cortisone creams twice daily at the most.
Both menthol and lidocaine directly alleviate the itchiness of a bug bite.
The former provides a soothing, cooling sensation, Dr. Sadoff says.
Meanwhile, she explains that the latter has a sort of numbing effect, which then dulls the itch.
What else can you do to get some relief from bug bites?
And thats why weve highlighted some of the best-selling, top-rated insect bite creams below.
Choose the best one for you, then go enjoy the great outdoors.
This particular formulation features aloe vera for an additional calming effect.
