How can I make bed bug bites heal? - briefly
First, wash the bites with mild soap and water, then apply a cold compress and a topical corticosteroid or antihistamine cream to reduce inflammation and itching. Keep the area moisturized, avoid scratching, and watch for signs of infection.
How can I make bed bug bites heal? - in detail
Treat the affected area promptly. Wash the skin with mild soap and cool water to remove irritants and reduce swelling. Pat dry, then apply a thin layer of a 1 % hydrocortisone cream or an over‑the‑counter anti‑itch ointment. These products suppress inflammation and relieve itching, which helps prevent secondary infection caused by scratching.
If itching persists, an oral antihistamine such as diphenhydramine or cetirizine can be taken according to the package directions. A cold compress applied for 10–15 minutes, several times a day, further diminishes swelling and numbs the skin.
Maintain moisture to support skin regeneration. Apply a fragrance‑free moisturizer or a thin film of aloe‑vera gel after the anti‑itch medication has been absorbed. This creates a protective barrier and promotes tissue repair.
Avoid actions that aggravate the lesions. Keep fingernails trimmed, wear gloves when handling contaminated bedding, and refrain from picking at scabs. Clean all clothing, linens, and personal items in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat to eliminate any remaining insects and their eggs.
Consider supplemental natural agents that have documented soothing properties. Diluted tea‑tree oil (1 % concentration) or a paste of baking soda and water can be applied for short periods, then rinsed off. Use these only if the skin shows no signs of irritation.
Monitor the bites for signs of infection: increasing redness, warmth, pus, or fever. Seek medical attention if any of these symptoms appear, or if an allergic reaction develops—characterized by rapid spreading hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face and throat.
Finally, eradicate the source of the infestation. Professional pest control, thorough vacuuming of mattresses and furniture, and sealing cracks in walls and baseboards are essential steps to prevent new bites and allow the skin to heal without further trauma.