7 Effective Tips To Treat Mosquito Bites In Toddlers
A widespread problem that parents face during summer is mosquito bites on babies. If you are one of them, you have landed at the right place! Mosquito bites can be uncomfortably itchy. It can make your little ones irritable, cranky and fussy.
While finding the right treatment for mosquito bites in infants, it is essential to remember that it should give quick relief. Here are seven effective tips for treating toddler mosquito bites.
1. Clean The Affected Area
Cleaning the bitten area is the first step in treating toddler mosquito bites. To completely clean the bite site, use mild soap and water. This will help prevent infection and reduce the chances of the bite site becoming itchier. It will further control irritation. Also, try to distract your child from scratching the bite area. Rubbing the area can lead to further infection and irritation. You can divert your toddler by playing a game or watching something. Try using ointments for kids’ mosquito bites. You can also use non-irritating tape to cover the bite.
2. Apply Cold Compress
Using a cold compress on the area where the bites are located is one of the fastest ways to ease the itching and discomfort caused by mosquito bites on babies. A cold, damp cloth or an ice pack wrapped in a towel can be beneficial. Place the fabric on the bite site for 10-15 minutes, several times a day, until the itching calms down. It will help reduce your baby’s irritation and make them feel relaxed.
3. Use Calamine Lotion
Calamine lotion is a famous ointment for kids’ mosquito bites that can help to relieve itching and soothe the skin. Zinc oxide, present in this lotion, has a cooling impact on the skin and reduces the effects of mosquito bites on babies. Before covering the bitten place with clothing, apply a thin coating of calamine lotion and let it dry. This will surely help in preventing the area from growing bacteria. Make sure the site is cleaned correctly with some disinfectant while you use lotion.
4. Use Oatmeal Bath
An oatmeal soak is another effective treatment for mosquito bites in babies. Oatmeal’s anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe irritated skin. Start with adding a cup of oatmeal to your toddler’s bathwater. Use this water to give your toddler a bath for 10-15 mins. This will aid in reducing swelling and itching in toddler mosquito bites. You can also make Oatmeal Bath on your own. Use uncooked whole-grain oats, grind them with a clean blender in fine powder, and mix them in lukewarm water.
5. Use Hydrocortisone Cream
Hydrocortisone lotion – made from the steroid hormone cortisol, can be an excellent ointment for kids’ mosquito bites. This cream is highly recommended for mosquito bite infant treatment. It aids in easing the swelling and itching. The lotion needs to be used very cautiously. The overuse could cause the skin to thin. It is essential to use a very thin layer of hydrocortisone cream, as directed on the packaging.
6. Use Essential Oils
Essential Oils have natural anti-inflammatory properties, which can be very useful in reducing itching and preventing infection in the bitten area. Tea Tree, eucalyptus, and lavender oils are valuable and helpful for mosquito bites infants treatment. Make sure to dilute the oil before using it on your child’s skin. Apply the mixture to the affected area by combining a few drops of the essential oil with carrier oil, such as coconut or olive oil.
7. Try Over-The-Counter Medications
To help relieve extreme itching or discomfort brought on by the bite, you can also try some OTC (Over-The-Counter) medication like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. These OTC medications can help your toddler to get relief from itching. They help treat mosquito bites in babies by reducing pain and inflammation. Don’t forget to follow the instructions on the package carefully. You can also consult your pediatrician before giving the medication to your kid to avoid any side effects.
Preventing Kids From Mosquito Bites
While biting, mosquitoes inject saliva. The swelling, redness, and itchiness on the skin are caused due to this saliva. While some people resist the reaction caused by this saliva, others have a more robust response. With time the human body builds a slight defense against mosquito bites, but since babies are new to the world, they are prone to stronger reactions.
Keep the best-suited remedies handy as summers are just around the corner. We can’t stop kids from enjoying and playing in gardens, parks and other areas with a large mosquito population. But we can indeed be ready with the treatment for mosquito bites on babies, but working on preventing a mosquito bite is essential too. Afterall prevention is always better than cure.
Dress your toddlers in clothes that minimize the exposure area. You can lightweight knits or cotton clothes that can cover their body in the best possible way. Avoid shorts, skirts, capris etc. Also, ensure a loose fit so mosquitoes don’t bite through the tight fit of the cloth. Younger babies can be dressed in onesies. The colours you choose also play a part in mosquito bites on babies. Dark colours attract mosquitoes and other insects. Hence choose light colours. They are also helpful in keeping your child cool. You can even use Baby Wipes to clean the affected area.
You can also use age-appropriate mosquito repellant. Ensure to pick mosquito repellant with no harsh chemicals that can cause skin rashes and irritation in your toddlers.
We at Eurokids ensure the best care, even for the minor challenge that your kid might face. Our motto is to provide a safe and comfortable learning and growing experience.