What should be applied to the skin after a bedbug bite? - briefly
Apply a soothing antihistamine or low‑strength corticosteroid cream to reduce itching and inflammation, and use a cold pack for brief relief of swelling. Keep the area clean and avoid scratching to prevent secondary infection.
What should be applied to the skin after a bedbug bite? - in detail
After a bed‑bug bite, the first step is to cleanse the area with mild soap and cool water. This removes any residual saliva and reduces the risk of secondary infection.
Topical agents that alleviate itching and inflammation include:
- 1% hydrocortisone cream applied two to three times daily for up to a week.
- Calamine lotion or zinc‑oxide paste, providing a soothing barrier and mild astringent effect.
- Over‑the‑counter antihistamine creams containing diphenhydramine, useful for immediate relief.
- Aloe vera gel, offering cooling sensation and mild anti‑inflammatory properties.
If the bite is particularly painful or swollen, a cold compress for 10‑15 minutes, repeated several times, can diminish swelling and numb the nerve endings.
Systemic antihistamines, such as cetirizine or loratadine, are appropriate when multiple bites cause widespread itching. Dosage follows package instructions or physician guidance.
Signs that warrant medical evaluation include increasing redness, pus formation, fever, or rapid spread of swelling. In such cases, a healthcare professional may prescribe oral antibiotics, stronger corticosteroids, or an epinephrine auto‑injector for severe allergic reactions.
Preventive skin care after treatment involves keeping the area dry, avoiding scratching, and applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly to protect against irritation.