The 10 Best Mosquito Bite Relief Products Recommended by Doctors to Stop the Itch
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Take the sting out of bug bites with pediatrician-recommended creams and devices
Verywell Family / David Hattan
Medically reviewed by Rachel Nazarian, MD
Although spring and summer bring warmer weather, it's during these seasons that we typically see an influx of mosquitoes—and, unfortunately, mosquito bites. For some kids, mosquito bites are no more than a small bump with a mild itch. For most, however, mosquito bites are persistently itchy and can become swollen or painful, even resulting in a low-grade fever, hives, or swollen lymph nodes.
"Mosquito bites are itchy because of the saliva the mosquito injects into our bodies," explains Krupa Playforth, MD, FAAP, Founder of The Pediatrician Mom. "The redness, swelling, and itching are part of our body's natural response to the trigger. Intervening by minimizing that reaction from the body can help decrease discomfort." Fortunately, plenty of products on the market today relieve the itch, pain, and redness associated with mosquito bites. When choosing a form of mosquito bite relief for your child, it's important to make sure its ingredients are safe for kids (every product on our list is). You should also consider the application type, level of effectiveness, and price.
To determine the best mosquito relief products for kids, we consulted with two pediatricians about which ingredients to look for and the products they recommend. We paid special attention to the application of each product, as some kids are apprehensive about medicine and need an alternative way to relieve their discomfort. As parents, we also want products that will provide relief quickly and effectively, so we looked for highly ranked options that we have either tried ourselves or were recommended by the experts or other parents. Based on our research, these are the best products for mosquito bite relief on the market today.
Best Overall: Bug Bite Thing Suction Tool
Pros
Safe for kids of all ages
Extracts mosquito saliva
Works in 30 seconds or less
Cons
Can leave a mark from the suction
When it comes to relieving an itchy mosquito bite, Dr. Playforth personally recommends the Bug Bite Thing. In 30 seconds or less, this handheld device can stop the itch from a mosquito bite. It works by using suction and negative pressure to relieve the itch sensation.
The Bug Bite Thing is safe for kids of all ages and even works on bee and wasp stings as well as bites from flies, no-see-ums, chiggers, and sea lice. You won’t have to worry about applying medication or chemicals to your child’s skin, and it can be used over and over again. However, it can leave behind a temporary mark or bruise if you hold the suction for too long.
Price at time of publication: $10
Key Specs:
Application Type: Device | Key Ingredients: None | Fast-Acting: Yes
Best Budget: Cutter BiteMD Insect Bite Relief Stick
Pros
Works instantly
No-mess application
Prevents infection
Cons
Kids may not like the smell
Not intended for children younger than age 2
The Cutter BiteMD Stick targets three side effects of a mosquito bite: itching, pain, and infection. Its soft tip gently dispenses a medicated liquid composed of benzocaine 5%, camphor 3%, and phenol 1.35% onto the bite without the mess, instantly disinfecting it and providing relief. It’s easy to use and is small enough to fit in a pocket, diaper bag, or purse.
In addition to mosquitoes, BiteMD can be used on bites or stings from wasps, chiggers, and ticks. It’s perfectly safe to use on children, but you should check with your pediatrician if your child is under age 2. You should also keep in mind that this product has a distinct scent that your kiddo may dislike, but the relief it provides may be worth it.
Price at time of publication: $4
Key Specs:
Application Type: Liquid | Key Ingredients: Benzocaine 5%, camphor 3%, phenol 1.35% | Fast-Acting: Yes
Best Lotion: Amazon Basics Medicated Calamine Anti-Itch Lotion
Pros
Stops itch and numbs pain
Costs less than $5
Infused with lavender and rosemary oil
Cons
Can dry out skin
Must shake well before use
Calamine lotion has been used for centuries to treat mild itchiness. This Amazon Basics version costs less than $5 and contains two active ingredients: pramoxine HCl, which numbs the skin to block pain and itching, and calamine, which relieves itching and soothes the skin.
While calamine is generally well tolerated, it can dry out your skin. You should also shake it well before applying as the medication can settle at the bottom of the bottle. As a bonus, this particular brand of calamine lotion is infused with lavender and rosemary oil, which give it a pleasant scent.
Price at time of publication: $5
Key Specs:
Application Type: Lotion | Key Ingredients: Pramoxine HCl 1%, calamine 8% | Fast-Acting: Yes
Related:The 10 Best Bug Sprays for Kids in 2023
Best for Kids: BuzzPatch Magic Patch Itch Patches
Pros
Easy to apply
Stays on for up to 7 days
Each pack contains 3 colors
Cons
May leave a residue on skin
These small, colorful patches are great for kids who don’t want medicine applied to their skin. They work by adjusting the skin in such a way that they help reduce the itching sensation and can deter kids from scratching. The patches are easy to apply and come in a pack of 27.
Another benefit of these patches is that they are waterproof, which is ideal for summertime. They even stay on for up to 7 days; however, they can be difficult to remove and may leave behind a sticky residue, similar to a BAND-AID.
Price at time of publication: $15
Key Specs:
Application Type: Patch | Key Ingredients: None | Fast-Acting: Yes
Best for Babies: Arm & Hammer Baking Soda
Pros
Recommended by the CDC
Easy DIY recipe
Safe and cost effective
Cons
May be hard to keep on a wiggly baby
Not convenient for travel
When we asked Steven Abelowitz, MD, FAAP, Founder and Medical Director of Coastal Kids Pediatrics and Medical Director of Pediatric Associates about which mosquito bite relief products are safe for babies, we were amazed that he suggested baking soda (also known as sodium bicarbonate). In fact, this pantry staple is so effective at alleviating itchy mosquito bites that it’s also recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
To make the DIY mosquito bite relief remedy, all you need is one tablespoon of baking soda and enough water to make a paste. Before doing so, you should wash the bite and ice it for about 10 minutes. Then, you can apply the paste to the bite and leave it on for 10 minutes before washing it off.
While this method is easy and cost-effective, it isn’t really convenient for travel. Also, it might be challenging to apply to (and keep it on) a wiggly baby, so we suggest doing so while your baby is napping, breast or bottle feeding, or enjoying playtime to prevent them from inadvertently wiping it off.
Price at time of publication: $9
Key Specs:
Application Type: Powder | Key Ingredients: Pure baking soda | Fast-Acting: No
Best for Swelling: Cortizone-10 Maximum Strength
Pros
Relief for up to 10 hours
Aloe helps soothe skin
Can be applied up to 3-4 times daily
Cons
Not intended for children younger than age 2
Cortizone 10 is a type of corticosteroid, a medication that helps treat swelling, redness, and itching. Corticosteroids are a manufactured version of a hormone produced by our adrenal glands and are often prescribed to help reduce inflammation.
Hydrocortisone cream, like Cortizone 10, is the first line of treatment for mosquito bites recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (APA). This particular version of Cortizone is infused with aloe vera and provides relief for up to 10 hours. However, it’s not intended for children under the age of 2, but check with your pediatrician if you think it’s necessary.
Price at time of publication: $11
Key Specs:
Application Type: Cream | Key Ingredients: Hydrocortisone 1% | Fast-Acting: Yes
Best Natural: Badger Itch Relief Balm
Pros
Easy for kids to apply
Hypoallergenic formula
Contains a variety of organic oils
Cons
Can be mistaken as lip balm
The secret ingredient in this Badger Itch Relief Balm is colloidal oatmeal. It’s made by grinding oats into a fine powder and has been used for centuries to treat itchy, irritated skin. In fact, colloidal oatmeal is so effective that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) officially recognizes it as a skin protectant.
“Oatmeal is a good remedy for an uncomfortable mosquito bite,” says Dr. Abelowitz. “It can relieve itching and swelling because it contains some anti-inflammatory components.” This Badger Itch Relief Balm also contains a variety of oils known for soothing the skin, including coconut, sunflower, and tea tree, to name a few. It’s easy for kids to apply on their own, but parents should always supervise, as younger children could mistake it for lip balm.
Price at time of publication: $8
Key Specs:
Application Type: Balm | Key Ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal 10% | Fast-Acting: Yes
Best Anti-Itch: Aquaphor Itch Relief Ointment
Pros
Up to 12 hours of relief
Contains hydrocortisone 1%
Hypoallergenic formula
Cons
Not intended for children younger than age 2
If you’re a parent or caregiver, chances are you know about the healing powers of Aquaphor. It’s known for its ability to heal dry skin, and now you can treat mosquito bites with Aquaphor’s Itch Relief Ointment.
Similar to Cortizone 10, this Aquaphor ointment’s active ingredient is hydrocortisone 1%, which makes it effective at relieving itchy bug bites. However, this also makes it not applicable for children under age 2 without a pediatrician’s approval. You should also avoid using this version of Aquaphor to treat diaper rash.
Price at time of publication: $12
Key Specs:
Application Type: Ointment | Key Ingredients: Hydrocortisone 1% | Fast-Acting: Yes
Best Antihistamine: Benadryl Extra Strength Anti-Itch Gel
Pros
Can treat severe reactions
Provides a cooling sensation
Won’t cause drowsiness
Cons
Not intended for children younger than age 2
Contains parabens
If your child has an extreme reaction to mosquito bites, they could have Skeeter Syndrome, a true allergy to mosquito saliva for which diphenhydramine HCL 2% (Benadryl) is a recommended treatment. Unlike the oral form of Benadryl, this cream doesn’t cause drowsiness and provides a cooling sensation that quickly soothes itchy bites.
Dr. Abelowitz notes that pharmaceutical options like Benadryl cream are often very effective at relieving itchy mosquito bites. However, Benadryl isn’t recommended for children under age 2, so talk to your pediatrician before applying this to your baby’s skin.
It’s important to note that this Benadryl cream contains propylparaben, a type of chemical that acts as a preservative and prevents bacteria buildup in medications like Benadryl. Propylparaben is often used in creams, lotions, and shampoos and is even found in certain foods. Like other parabens, propylparaben can potentially disrupt hormones and harm reproductive organs. However, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of parabens, so propylparaben is classified as “Generally Regarded As Safe” by the FDA.
Price at time of publication: $6
Key Specs:
Application Type: Cream | Key Ingredients: Diphenhydramine HCL 2% | Fast-Acting: Yes
Related:The Best OTC Allergy Medicines of 2023
Best Heat-Based Device: Bite Away Insect Sting and Bite Relief
Pros
Chemical-free, works with your body’s natural responses
Compact and portable
Older kids can apply it themselves
Cons
Can take up to 10 minutes to relieve pain and itching
Not intended for children younger than age 2
Bite away is an electronic tool that emits heat when applied to a mosquito bite. Dr. Abelowitz explains that the controlled heat reduces swelling and itching and only takes a few seconds to apply. The heat it produces is 128 degrees F, which may surprise your child at first but only lasts 3-5 seconds. However, the results are not immediate and may take up to 10 minutes for symptoms to fully subside.
The bite away device works by triggering your body’s natural pain- and itch-relieving responses. It’s about the size of an at-home pregnancy test, making it convenient for parents to slip in their pockets, purse, or carry-on luggage. Kids ages 12 and older can apply bite away themselves; however, it’s not recommended for children who are younger than age 2.
Price at time of publication: $30
Key Specs:
Application Type: Device | Key Ingredients: Heat | Fast-Acting: No
How We Selected the Best Mosquito Bite Relief Products
Before choosing the best mosquito bite relief products, we interviewed two experts: Steven Abelowitz, MD, FAAP, Founder and Medical Director of Coastal Kids Pediatrics and Medical Director of Pediatric Associates, and Krupa Playforth, MD, FAAP, creator of The Pediatrician Mom and owner of the popular Instagram account, @thepediatricianmom.
Both providers shared a wealth of information about how to relieve the itch, pain, and swelling associated with mosquito bites, citing both natural and pharmaceutical options. They also explained the pathology of mosquito bites, including why they itch and why some kids react more severely to bites than others. We then studied dozens of mosquito relief products and reviewed the opinions of customers and competitors for each one. For each product, we also considered the application type, relief and effectiveness, key ingredients, and price.
What to Look for in Mosquito and Bug Bite Relief Products
Application Type
The type of mosquito bite relief product you choose will depend on a variety of factors, including your child’s age, preference, and lifestyle. Throughout our list, you’ll find various products in the form of devices, patches, creams, balms, and lotions.
If your child is younger than 2 years of age, your treatment options are limited to more natural alternatives, such as Badger Itch Relief Balm or Arm & Hammer Pure Baking Soda. While stronger products like Cortizone 10 Maximum Strength Creme With Aloe aren’t intended for children younger than age 2, they may be necessary—but should only be used under the guidance of your pediatrician.
If your child is reluctant to use medicine, the soothing scent of Amazon Basics Medicated Calamine Anti-Itch Lotion may be just what they need. Alternatively, you can experiment with the Cutter BiteMD Insect Bite Relief Stick, which has a soft tip that gently dispenses the medicated liquid onto your child’s skin. You may even want to offer them a colorful BuzzPatch Magic Patch or try a device like the Bug Bite Thing or bite away.
Relief and Effectiveness
Certain mosquito bite relief products work faster and provide longer-lasting relief than others. For example, our best overall pick, Bug Bite Thing, works in less than 30 seconds and can provide “one-and-done” results, while our pick for best heat-based device, bite away, can take anywhere from 2-10 minutes to work.
Depending on your child’s age and the severity of their reaction to a mosquito bite, it may make sense to opt for a more natural approach first. Badger Itch Relief Balm and Arm & Hammer Pure Baking Soda are safe for children of all ages and are surprisingly effective. However, if you think your child needs something stronger, you might want to skip straight ahead to the medicated products, such as Aquaphor Itch Relief Ointment or Cortizone 10 Maximum Strength Creme With Aloe, which contain hydrocortisone 1% and can provide relief for 10-12 hours.
Key Ingredients
From herbs and oils to manufactured hormones, the key ingredients in mosquito relief products vary quite a bit. When it comes to products that contain natural ingredients, we recommend Badger Itch Relief Balm (which contains colloidal oatmeal) and Arm & Hammer Pure Baking Soda.
If you’re looking for something that doesn’t have a corticosteroid or antihistamine, the Amazon Basics Medicated Calamine Anti-Itch Lotion is a great alternative. In fact, people have used calamine for centuries to treat mosquito bites because it eliminates the itch and soothes the skin.
For a stronger approach, we suggest Aquaphor Itch Relief Ointment or Cortizone 10 Maximum Strength Creme With Aloe, which harness the power of corticosteroids to relieve itching, swelling, and redness for up to 10-12 hours. However, if you suspect that your child may be allergic to mosquito saliva (a condition also known as Skeeter Syndrome), Benadryl Extra Strength Cooling Anti-Itch Gel, which contains an antihistamine called diphenhydramine HCL 2%, is the way to go.
Price
The mosquito bite relief products on our list vary in price, ranging from $4 to $30, with an average price tag of around $10.
However, price is not always synonymous with effectiveness. Our most expensive option, bite away, costs $30 and is portable and free of chemicals and messy creams or balms. However, it can take anywhere from 2-10 minutes to provide relief, which may be a deal breaker for some.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best mosquito bite relief?
After speaking with two experts and analyzing dozens of products, we think the best mosquito bite relief product is the Bug Bite Thing. It actively eliminates the cause of itchiness (mosquito saliva) and can provide relief in just 30 seconds. Since it’s not medicated, it’s safe to use on children of all ages and won’t leave behind any oily or gooey residue.
That said, you may have to experiment with different products to determine which works best for your children. If they are reluctant to use devices, you may want to try a more traditional product like a cream, balm, or lotion.
What stops mosquito bites from itching?
Fortunately, there are a variety of ways to stop a mosquito bite from itching—it just depends on what works best for your body. While some children respond best to antihistamines or corticosteroids, others find relief in natural ingredients, such as colloidal oatmeal, baking soda, aloe vera, ice, or heat. According to Dr. Abelowitz, parents can also try honey, vinegar, witch hazel, or chamomile tea to help treat their child’s mosquito bite, but you should speak to your healthcare provider first.
Why do some people react so badly to mosquito bites?
“Many children have robust reactions to mosquito bites,” says Dr. Playforth. “These typically get better [with] age, although there are still some adults that react strongly. The degree of reaction is proportional to the degree of sensitivity of the immune system to the mosquito saliva. Skeeter Syndrome is a condition where a person has an allergy to the mosquito saliva, and this can result in even larger, more dramatic reactions.”
Why Trust Verywell Family
Laura Lu, M.S. is an experienced health writer who has a Master of Science degree in Health Communication. Her work has appeared in publications like The New York Times, Media Psychology, Brit+Co, and Parents.com, to name a few. As a parent of a child who has a strong reaction to mosquito bites, she understands what it’s like to try different products in search of the one that takes the itch away. While Cortizone 10 tends to work well for her daughter, Laura recently purchased the Bug Bite Thing and plans to use it on her family during mosquito season this summer.
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