How to get rid of bedbugs on the body at home? - briefly
Wash the exposed skin with hot water and antibacterial soap, then dry on the highest heat setting; repeat the process after 24 hours to catch any survivors. If insects persist, apply a skin‑safe insecticide (e.g., permethrin‑based lotion) according to the product instructions.
How to get rid of bedbugs on the body at home? - in detail
Bed‑bug bites can be treated safely without leaving the house by following a systematic approach.
First, remove visible insects. Wear disposable gloves, isolate the affected area, and use a fine‑toothed comb or tweezers to extract any bugs you see on the skin. Place the captured specimens in a sealed bag for disposal.
Second, cleanse the skin. Wash the bites with warm water and a mild antibacterial soap for at least 30 seconds. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a clean towel. Applying a topical antiseptic, such as hydrogen peroxide (3 %) or a diluted povidone‑iodine solution, reduces the risk of infection.
Third, alleviate itching and inflammation. Use an over‑the‑counter antihistamine tablet or a topical corticosteroid cream (1 % hydrocortisone) as directed on the label. For severe reactions, seek medical advice promptly.
Fourth, prevent re‑infestation on the body. Launder all clothing, bedding, and towels that have contacted the skin in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Items that cannot be washed should be placed in a sealed plastic bag for 72 hours, a period sufficient to kill dormant bugs.
Fifth, treat the surrounding environment to avoid continual exposure. Vacuum carpets, mattresses, and upholstery, discarding the vacuum bag or cleaning the canister afterward. Apply a residual insecticide spray labeled for indoor use on cracks, crevices, and seams where the insects hide, following the manufacturer’s safety instructions. For a chemical‑free alternative, sprinkle diatomaceous earth in affected areas, leave it for several hours, then vacuum.
Finally, monitor the skin for signs of secondary infection—redness spreading, pus, or increased pain—and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms worsen.
By adhering to these steps—removal, thorough cleansing, symptom management, laundering, environmental control, and ongoing observation—the presence of bed‑bugs on the body can be eliminated effectively without professional intervention.