How to Prevent Mosquito Bites and Soothe the Symptoms

Mosquitoes are irritating insects that can ruin our time outdoors. Their bites can cause itching, swelling and can even transmit diseases. In this article, we explore different ways to prevent mosquito bites and how to soothe the symptoms if you do get bitten. We also mention some effective products that can help you in this fight against mosquitoes.

During hot and humid months, mosquitoes tend to be more active. Their bites can cause discomfort and irritation, especially when they appear on sensitive areas of the skin. In this article, you will learn how to prevent mosquito bites and how to calm the symptoms if you are bitten.

Why do mosquitoes bite?

Mosquitoes are flying insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals. Only female mosquitoes bite, because they need the protein found in blood in order to produce eggs. These insects are attracted by the carbon dioxide we exhale, as well as body heat and body odour.

How can you prevent mosquito bites?

Using repellents

Mosquito repellents are an excellent way to protect yourself from bites. Look for repellents that contain active ingredients such as DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Apply the repellent to exposed areas of the skin and reapply it according to the product instructions.

Protective clothing

Wearing protective clothing can help prevent mosquito bites. Choose long-sleeved tops, long trousers and socks. It is also a good idea to wear light-coloured clothing, as mosquitoes are attracted to dark colours.

Protection at home

Keep your home protected against mosquitoes by closing windows and doors, especially at dusk and during the night. Use mosquito nets on windows and consider electronic mosquito-control devices.

Avoiding infested areas

Whenever possible, avoid areas known for having a high mosquito population. These are often places near stagnant water, such as ponds or marshes.

Home remedies to relieve bite symptoms

If, despite your efforts to prevent mosquito bites, you still get bitten, there are some home remedies that may help relieve the symptoms:

Cold compresses

Apply cold compresses to the bites to reduce swelling and relieve itching. You can use ice cubes wrapped in a towel or soak a cloth in cold water and apply it directly to the bite.

Aloe vera

Aloe vera gel has soothing properties and can help relieve itching and inflammation. Apply the gel directly to the mosquito bite for relief.

Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar can help soothe itching. Soak a cotton pad in apple cider vinegar and apply it gently to the bite.

Bicarbonate of soda paste

Mix bicarbonate of soda with water until you get a thick paste. Apply the paste to the bite and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing it off.

Recommended products to prevent and relieve mosquito bites

Below, we mention some effective products that can help you prevent and relieve mosquito bites:

Pranarom Citronella roll-on body milk

This Pranarom citronella roll-on body milk has a pleasant scent and helps protect the skin from typical summer aggressors. Its formula contains essential oils of citronella, geranium, lavender, eucalyptus citriodora and citriodiol, all recognised for their insect-repelling power. It comes in a roll-on format that you can take anywhere, helps the product absorb well and leaves the skin soft without feeling greasy.

Relec mosquito-repellent bracelet

The Relec mosquito-repellent bracelet contains repellent ingredients that offer long-lasting protection. It is an effective, easy, safe and simple way to repel mosquitoes during outdoor activities or while at home. It does not need to be applied directly to the skin like traditional repellents. You simply place it on your wrist and it releases a mosquito-repelling scent that helps keep almost any mosquito species away.

Pranarom Aromapic soothing post-bite roll-on gel

If you do get bitten, this Pranarom Aromapic soothing roll-on gel acts on insect bites on the skin, cooling and soothing the affected area. With extracts of blue eucalyptus and lemongrass, it is suitable for adults and children over 3 years old, and can be applied directly to the irritated area at least 3 to 4 times a day until a noticeable improvement is seen. Now that you know how to prevent mosquito bites, discover our repellent products to help avoid insect bites.