What to apply to the feet for earth fleas? - briefly
Apply a topical scabicide such as 5 % permethrin cream or a sulfur‑containing ointment to the affected areas. Repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eradicate any remaining larvae.
What to apply to the feet for earth fleas? - in detail
Apply a topical scabicide containing permethrin (5 %) or crotamiton (10 %). These agents penetrate the chigger’s mouthparts, killing the parasite before it embeds deeper. Use a thin layer on the affected area, leave for the time specified on the product label (usually 6–8 hours), then wash off with soap and water.
If permethrin or crotamiton is unavailable, use a cream or ointment with benzyl benzoate (25 %). Apply liberally, cover with a non‑adhesive dressing, and leave for at least 30 minutes before rinsing. Repeat the application after 24 hours if itching persists.
For rapid relief of itching and inflammation, apply a corticosteroid cream (hydrocortisone 1 % or higher potency if prescribed). Combine with an oral antihistamine such as cetirizine 10 mg to reduce systemic allergic response.
When the bite has progressed to a ulcerated lesion, use a topical antibiotic (mupirocin 2 %) to prevent secondary bacterial infection. Apply a thin film twice daily until the skin re‑epithelializes.
A practical protocol:
- Clean the feet with lukewarm water and mild soap; dry thoroughly.
- Apply permethrin 5 % lotion; cover with breathable gauze for 6–8 hours.
- Remove lotion, wash again, and pat dry.
- If itching continues, apply hydrocortisone 1 % cream; repeat every 6 hours.
- Add cetirizine 10 mg orally once daily for 2–3 days if needed.
- Monitor for signs of infection (increased redness, swelling, pus); introduce mupirocin if present.
Preventive measures include wearing tightly woven socks, applying insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin before exposure, and showering immediately after outdoor activity to remove unattached chiggers.