I get bug bites but my kids do not? What’s up?
People can have different attraction levels for insects. For example, some people are more likely to “attract” mosquitoes due to perfumes, fabric softeners and even pheromones. This is one reason an insect “prefers” one person over another, so limiting fragrance is an easy first step to help decrease the risk.
Insect bites can be frustrating and annoying. However, it’s a sign of spring, and we can learn to manage this outdoor dilemma. The most effective approach is complete avoidance. However, given the number of mosquitoes, chiggers, or other biting critters outdoors, it can be difficult to completely avoid insect bites.
The chemical DEET is highly effective, but should be avoided for infants and toddlers for the most part, especially on the hands and face. Multiple non-DEET products are available, but do not work as reliably but may be safer.
If you suffer from insect bites, there are options to relieve the itching, such as a topical diphenhydramine (Benadryl), over-the-counter hydrocortisone or even a menthol/camphor lotion. Try not to scratch the bites since they can become infected which could lead to topical and/or oral antibiotics to manage the infection.
Sunflower Dermatology wishes you a happy, healthy spring and as always, better skin for a better life®.
HAVE A QUESTION FOR OUR DOCTORS? EMAIL US AT patient@sunflowerdermatology.com WITH SUBJECT LINE “Stump the Doctor”
