How do I stop mosquito bites from itching?

A cold pack, aloe vera gel or a small dab of honey can calm the itch. Try not to scratch, which prolongs itching.

Does neem oil keep mosquitoes away?

Neem oil diluted in coconut oil is a traditional deterrent. It helps somewhat but nets and covering up are more reliable.

When should I worry about a mosquito bite?

If fever, headache, joint pain or a rash follows, see a doctor to rule out dengue, malaria or chikungunya.

Skin5 min

Home remedies for mosquito bites: ice, aloe vera, a honey dab and neem to keep them away

Itchy mosquito bites are a monsoon and summer staple. These home remedies for mosquito bites calm the itch and swelling with an ice pack, fresh aloe vera gel or a dab of honey, and help prevent new bites with covered clothing, nets and neem oil.

Why mosquito bites itch

When a mosquito bites, its saliva triggers a small immune reaction that causes a raised, itchy bump. Scratching breaks the skin and can lead to infection. In India, mosquitoes also spread dengue, malaria and chikungunya, so preventing bites matters.

Neem oil mixed with coconut oil is a traditional Indian mosquito deterrent, and aloe vera is a home favourite for calming itchy bumps.

Ingredients

Ice cubes wrapped in a thin cloth
Fresh aloe vera gel or a dab of honey
Neem oil and coconut oil (for prevention)

How to prepare

Wrap 2–3 ice cubes in a thin cotton cloth.
For prevention, mix 1 part neem oil with 10 parts coconut oil.

How to use

Hold the ice pack on the bite for 5–10 minutes.
Apply a little aloe gel or honey on the bump and leave on; repeat 2–3 times a day.
Rub the neem–coconut oil on exposed skin in the evening.

Helpful habits

Use mosquito nets and window screens.
Wear light, long-sleeved clothes at dusk and dawn.
Empty standing water in coolers, pots and tyres weekly.

Precautions

Don't use honey on bites in babies under 1 year; use a cold compress instead.
Patch test neem oil; avoid it near the eyes.
See a doctor for fever, body ache or rash after bites, or for bites that become red, hot and swollen with pus.

Frequently asked questions

How do I stop mosquito bites from itching?: A cold pack, aloe vera gel or a small dab of honey can calm the itch. Try not to scratch, which prolongs itching.
Does neem oil keep mosquitoes away?: Neem oil diluted in coconut oil is a traditional deterrent. It helps somewhat but nets and covering up are more reliable.
When should I worry about a mosquito bite?: If fever, headache, joint pain or a rash follows, see a doctor to rule out dengue, malaria or chikungunya.