What to apply to flea bites at home? - briefly
Apply a cold compress, then treat the area with hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to lessen swelling and itching. Antihistamine tablets may be taken to further reduce the allergic response.
What to apply to flea bites at home? - in detail
Flea bites cause localized redness, swelling, and itching. Immediate care begins with cleansing the affected skin. Gentle washing using mild soap and lukewarm water removes irritants and reduces the risk of secondary infection. Pat the area dry with a clean towel; avoid rubbing, which can aggravate inflammation.
After cleansing, apply a cooling agent to diminish itching and edema. Options include:
- A cold compress wrapped in a cloth, applied for 10‑15 minutes, repeated several times daily.
- A paste made from equal parts oatmeal and water, left on the skin for 15‑20 minutes before rinsing.
- A mixture of baking soda and water, applied similarly to the oatmeal paste.
Topical anti‑inflammatory substances further relieve discomfort. Suitable choices are:
- Aloe vera gel, spread thinly and left to absorb.
- Hydrocortisone cream (1 %), applied once or twice daily, limited to a few days to avoid skin thinning.
- Calamine lotion, brushed on the bite until the skin feels dry.
Antihistamine preparations counteract the histamine response that drives itching. Options include:
- Over‑the‑counter antihistamine cream containing diphenhydramine, applied according to package directions.
- Oral antihistamine tablets such as cetirizine or loratadine, taken at the recommended dose for systemic relief.
Natural antiseptic agents support healing and prevent bacterial colonisation. Effective agents are:
- Witch hazel, applied with a cotton pad, allowing it to air‑dry.
- Tea tree oil, diluted 1 % with a carrier oil (e.g., coconut oil) before topical use.
- Raw honey, dabbed lightly onto the bite, left for 20‑30 minutes before rinsing.
For persistent or worsening symptoms, seek professional evaluation. Indicators include spreading redness, pus formation, fever, or intense pain unresponsive to home measures.