We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. What to Buy OTC Products Mosquito Bites Are No Match for the 9 Best Bug Bite Relief Products Our top picks from Benadryl, Gold Bond, and more top brands provide instant relief By April Benshosan April Benshosan April Benshosan is a writer, editor, and content strategist covering health, fitness, beauty, and wellness. She graduated with a Master's in Publishing, and her dedication to responsible health journalism has led her to spearhead the nutrition vertical at a major publication before taking on freelancing full-time. health's editorial guidelines Updated on June 3, 2024 Medically reviewed by Susan Bard, MD Medically reviewed by Susan Bard, MD Susan Bard, MD, is a board-certified general and procedural dermatologist with the American Board of Dermatology and a Fellow of the American College of Mohs Surgery. learn more Fact checked by Richard Scherr Fact checked by Richard Scherr Rich Scherr is an updates strategist and fact checker for Health.com. He is a seasoned journalist and editor with over two decades of experience, he has held several leadership roles at major publications. health's fact checking process In This Article View All In This Article Our Top Picks Reviews Types of Bug Bite Relief Products Ingredients to Look For How We Selected What to Know About Bug Bite Relief Who We Are Health If bug bites are the bane of your existence anytime you go outside (especially in warmer weather), you know the struggle of walking around with itchy, painful welts. Reactions to bug bites vary widely and are based on your individual immune response (children and adolescents tend to react more than adults). While common symptoms of bug bites include redness, swelling, and painful itching sensations, you should evaluate your bug bites as soon as you can to identify what type of bug bit you and make sure it won’t lead to anything more serious (like Lyme disease, which can stem from a tick bite). Mosquito bites, which are the most common type of allergic reaction, can cause bothersome, itchy, red, swollen, painful, firm skin lesions that can last for up to 10 days, according to experts we consulted. If you know you’re sensitive to bug bites, or just want to plan ahead for your next outing, it’s not a bad idea to stock up on bite relief products (in addition to mosquito repellent and tick repellent). The best bug bite relief products help you find instant relief from the most annoying and frustrating reactions to bug bites (namely pain and itchiness). To help stop the itch, look for products that can numb the area to dull that itchy sensation, products with hydrocortisone that can reduce inflammation, antihistamines that can decrease redness, swelling and itchiness, and skin protectants. We spoke with allergists and dermatologists about the different types of bug bite relief products, as well as the key ingredients to look for (and to avoid). If you suspect your bug bite could lead to disease or infection, go to your physician or an urgent care. A dermatologist from our Medical Expert Board reviewed the content surrounding treating bug bites and bug bite relief types for accuracy. Different Types of Bug Bite Relief Products Bug bite relief products come in many forms and types. The most popular ones are sprays and topical creams and ointments, but you'll also find them in other forms like sticks and patches. Sprays, like Benadryl's Extra Strength Itch Cooling Spray, are usually best for people who want a no-mess application, and they often provide a cooling sensation for added relief. Creams, ointments, and balms, such as Gold Bond Medicated Maximum Strength Pain & Itch Cream and Badger's Itch Relief Stick are a bit less convenient to use than sprays because they do get your hands a bit greasy or sticky and might cause stains on your clothes; but they're just as affective and allow for a more targeted application. Patches, such as the Magic Patch Itch Relief Patches, are another mess-free alternative that's convenient and travels well. Suction devices work by using suction to remove saliva or venom from bites or stings. But Kelly Maples, MD, allergist, chair of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Dermatology Committee and her team, say that there isn't any evidence that these suction devices improve bug bite reactions. Ingredients to Look For There are quite a few active ingredients that are included in bug bite relief products to help stop itching and discomfort. According to Megan Rogge, MD, a dermatologist with UTHealth Houston, these common ingredients include: Camphor and menthol: These are topical analgesics that provide a cooling effect on the skin Lidocaine and pramoxine: These are topical local anesthetics that dull the sensation of itch and pain Hydrocortisone: This is a topical corticosteroid that decreases inflammation leading to reduced redness, swelling and itch Diphenhydramine (Benadryl): This is an antihistamine and analgesic which decreases redness, swelling, and itch Zinc oxide (Calamine lotion): This is an astringent that helps to dry lesions that are oozing or weeping; it also has mild antiseptic properties for open lesions Essential oils (such as peppermint and lavender): These can be good itch-relief alternatives for people who don't want to apply chemicals to their skin. However, essential oils can lead to allergic contact dermatitis, a reaction in people who are sensitive to them, per a 2021 study. It’s also worth noting: Dr. Rogge recommends avoiding routine application of topical antibiotics, which include neomycin, bacitracin, and polymyxin b, for bug bites unless you have a strong suspicion for infection. Using these OTC antibiotics regularly may sensitize a person and then lead to them developing a topical allergy, which would cause increased redness, swelling and itch, as well as blister formation in more severe cases, Dr. Rogge says. Always scan the label for these ingredients if you're trying to avoid them. Our Top Picks Best Overall: SALE Benadryl Itch Cooling Spray at Amazon $9 $7 Jump to Review Best Lotion: SALE Swan Calamine Lotion at Amazon $7 $5 Jump to Review Best Stick: Benadryl Itch Relief Stick at Amazon $21 Jump to Review Best Spray: Dermoplast Insect Itch and Sting Pain Relief Spray at Amazon Jump to Review Best Patch: BuzzPatch Itch Patches at Amazon $15 Jump to Review Best Chemical-Free: Badger Itch Relief Balm at Amazon $8 Jump to Review Best Heat-Based: SALE Bite Away Insect Sting & Itch Relief Stick at Amazon $30 $25 Jump to Review Best Numbing: SALE Gold Bond Maximum Strength Pain & Itch Cream at Amazon $14 $8 Jump to Review Best for Kids: Aveeno Soothing Bath Treatment Soak at Amazon $8 Jump to Review Best Overall Benadryl Itch Cooling Spray PHOTO: Amazon $9 $7 at Amazon $7 at Target $18 at Walmart Why We Like It Bug bites are no match against Benadryl's Extra Strength Anti-Itch Cooling Spray. The main ingredient is diphenhydramine, which works by blocking histamine. Megan Rogge, MD, a dermatologist with UTHealth Houston says diphenhydramine is an effective antihistamine and analgesic that decreases redness, swelling, and itch. This Benadryl spray also contains zinc oxide, which is an astringent that helps dry out oozing bites, Dr. Rogge says. Simply spray this on your bug bites and wait for it to dry for instant relief that lasts hours. While you may find that one or two sprays is enough to tame even the itchiest bug bites, this 2-ounce spray travels well, so you can pop it in your purse (or carry-on—it's TSA-friendly) for itch relief on the go. It’s Worth Noting You have to wait a few seconds for it to dry for the itch relief to kick in. Product Details: Type: SpraySize: 2 oz.Best For: Itching, pain, and burning from bug bites Key Ingredients: 2% diphenhydramine HCl topical analgesic and 0.1% zinc acetate skin protectant Best Lotion Swan Calamine Lotion PHOTO: Amazon $7 $5 at Amazon $4 at Walmart Why We Like It You might remember this classic pink itch-relief lotion from your childhood. Calamine's active ingredients are zinc and iron oxide. Calamine is an astringent with mild antiseptic properties, and it works by drying up lesions, Dr. Rogge says. Calamine lotion works well on insect bites, chicken pox, shingles, heat rash, and other uncomfortable conditions, and it's great at reducing not only itching but swelling and irritation too. To apply, shake the bottle well, pour some of the calamine onto a cotton ball, and then dab it on the bug bite and let it dry. You can apply it multiple times a day safely, and while the bottle is large enough to use on the entire body, a little goes a long way. It’s Worth Noting The liquid is very thin and runny, so the application can be a little messy. And it leaves a pale pink powdery residue on your skin that may look a little funny. Product Details: Type: LotionSize: 6 oz.Best For: Mosquito bites, bee stings, and other insect-related skin reactionsKey Ingredients: Calamine 8%, zinc oxide 8% Best Stick Benadryl Itch Relief Stick PHOTO: Amazon $21 at Amazon $4 at Target Why We Like It This travel-friendly bug bite relief stick is small enough to stash in your purse, backpack, or pocket, so it might just become your companion through hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities. The diphenhydramine-based formula relieves itching, swelling, pain, and irritation from all kinds of insect bites almost instantly. Simply hold the stick straight down and apply it on bug bites. We love that Benadryl's itch relief stick makes for a no-mess application, which deems it perfect for using on kids' bug bites so long as the child isn't under 2 years old (if they are, ask a pediatrician before using this product). Unlike creams or lotions, you don't have to rub this medication on your skin—just apply and go, no sticky residue or greasy hands to worry about. It’s Worth Noting While this stick is convenient, it’s less than half an ounce of product. You’re paying for the convenient packaging. Product Details: Type: Stick/balmSize: 0.47 oz.Best For: Itchiness, pain, and discomfort from mosquito bites, bee stings, and moreKey Ingredients: 2% diphenhydramine HCI topical analgesic, 0.1% zinc acetate skin protectant Best Spray Dermoplast Insect Itch and Sting Pain Relief Spray PHOTO: Amazon View on Amazon $21 at Walmart View on Dermoplast.com Why We Like It If you're the type of person that mosquitoes seek out every summer, you'll want to keep this anti-itch spray on hand for quick and easy application. Dermoplast's spray relieves the pain and itching associated with bug bites thanks to a combo of two effective active ingredients: Benzocaine, which numbs the area, and menthol, which calms irritation and itchiness with a cooling effect. Benzocaine is a topical local anesthetic that temporarily numbs nerve endings to alleviate pain and itching. Menthol, which is naturally derived from the peppermint plant, works by causing a cooling sensation, which naturally relieves the itch, according to a 2018 study. Dermoplast's Insect Itch and Sting Pain Relief Spray is also formulated with aloe and lanolin (a type of natural wax) to help moisturize angry skin. It’s Worth Noting Once the numbing sensation has worn off, pain and itching may return. Product Details: Type: SpraySize: 2.75 oz.Best For: Itchiness, pain, and discomfort from mosquito bites, bee stings, and moreKey Ingredients: Benzocaine 20%, Menthol 0.5% Best Patch BuzzPatch Itch Patches PHOTO: Amazon $15 at Amazon View on Naturalpatch.com View on Northlineexpress.com Why We Like It Think of these adorable little patches as Band-Aids for bug bites. Just slap one on your bite and enjoy relief in about 30 to 60 seconds. These cross-shaped patches work by stretching across the skin and helping to drain the mosquito saliva, which is what causes the itch and discomfort. So yes, that means these patches are completely chemical-free and safe for kids. You can leave a patch on for up to 1 week, and they're completely waterproof so they'll last through beach days, watersports, and showers. And since these patches cover your bug bite, you'll be less tempted to scratch it—and we all know that scratching bug bites only makes them feel worse. It’s Worth Noting You can only apply one patch per bug bite, so if you have multiple bites in one area, this product will make it harder to find relief. Product Details: Type: PatchSize: 27 patchesBest For: itchiness from bug bites Key Ingredients: None Best Chemical-Free Badger Itch Relief Balm PHOTO: Amazon $8 at Amazon $8 at Walmart View on Vitacost Why We Like It Lightweight, compact, and easy to use, this anti-itch balm comes as a convenient stick you can take with you virtually anywhere (yes, even on a plane). This oil-based stick is chemical-free and formulated with colloidal oatmeal and organic menthol to help soothe bug bites for hours. Colloidal oatmeal works by moisturizing the skin, and it also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help soothe itchiness, per a Feb. 2007 study. Badger's Itch Relief Stick also features sea buckthorn and lavender essential oils as well as vitamin E, coconut oil, and castor oil to nourish dry, irritated skin. We also like that this pick is safe and effective for kids 6 months and older, so you can feel confident that this chemical-free formula will soothe even the peskiest bug bites without any potential side effects. It’s Worth Noting It's pricier than other options on this list. Product Details: Type: Stick/balmSize: 0.6 oz.Best For: Itchiness and dryness from bug bites Key Ingredients: Organic Colloidal Oatmeal 10% Best Heat-Based Bite Away Insect Sting & Itch Relief Stick PHOTO: HSA Store $30 $25 at Amazon $20 at Walmart $30 at Home Depot Why We Like It This chemical-free, FDA-cleared device works by emitting concentrated heat up to 124 degrees Fahrenheit to numb your bug bites, reduce swelling, and provide instant relief. It's effective on bites from mosquitoes, wasps, bees, ants, sea lice, chiggers and more. Simply place the pen's ceramic tip on your bug bite and select either 3 or 5 seconds (we suggest starting with 3 seconds), and then the pen will emit heat. If you're looking for a heat-based device that's free of chemicals or other active ingredients, this may be worth trying. You can safely use Bite Away Insect Sting & Itch Relief Stick up to 5 times per hour—just make sure to wait 2 minutes in between uses. While it's the most expensive product on this list, coming in at around $30, you only have to purchase it once because there's nothing in it that will run out, unlike a cream, spray, or balm. You'll get around 300 uses before you'll have to replace the batteries. It’s Worth Noting It could be difficult to apply by yourself on hard-to-reach areas. Product Details: Type: Heating deviceSize: 6.5"L x 1"W x 1.13"HBest For: itchiness and swelling from bug bitesKey Ingredients: None Best Numbing Gold Bond Maximum Strength Pain & Itch Cream PHOTO: Amazon $14 $8 at Amazon $11 at Walgreens $14 at Walmart Why We Like It Gold Bond's anti-itch cream is made with lidocaine, the same ingredient used in many common pain-relief patches like Salonpas. Lidocaine is a tried-and-true topical local anesthetic that dulls the sensation of itch and pain, says Dr. Rogge. This cream contains 4% lidocaine, which is a high concentration compared to many other products you might find on pharmacy shelves. The numbing, pain-relieving effects will help you avoid scratching bug bites and you can apply this cream up to four times a day for all-day relief. It’s Worth Noting While this is a great over-the-counter bug bite solution for adults, you'll want to ask a doctor before using it on kids under 12 years old. Product Details: Type: CreamSize: 1.75 oz.Best For: Itchiness and pain from bug bites Key Ingredients: 4% lidocaine Best for Kids Aveeno Soothing Bath Treatment Soak PHOTO: Amazon $8 at Amazon $8 at Walmart $10 at Walgreens Why We Like It If you've got some time and you want an all-natural, chemical-free treatment for your kid, colloidal oatmeal is the way to go. It comes as a powder made of finely ground oats, and all you have to do is sprinkle it into warm bath water and mix until it turns milky. Colloidal oatmeal has been used for centuries as a natural itch remedy, and it's FDA-approved as a skin protectant, aka a product that protects injured or exposed skin and provides relief from uncomfortable symptoms, per the FDA. Aveeno's Soothing Bath Treatment Soak is safe and effective, even for babies, and it leaves the skin moisturized and soft. Plus, we love that this treatment is widely available at many drugstores at an affordable price point. It’s Worth Noting You'll need to soak the bug bite (or the entire body) for 15 to 30 minutes and then pat it dry without rinsing to keep a thin layer on the skin. Product Details: Type: Bath soakSize: 8 individually wrapped packetsBest For: Itchiness associated with bug bitesKey Ingredients: 100% colloidal oatmeal How We Selected To find the best bug bite relief products, we asked a dermatologist and allergist on what to look for in a quality product, and then researched countless products that fit their criteria. We included a wide range of products with varying active ingredients and different formats so you're sure to find a product that fits your needs. We also included tried-and-true products that we personally use and love. The Experts The experts we spoke to include: Kelly Maples, MD, allergist, chair of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Dermatology CommitteeMegan Rogge, MD, a dermatologist with UTHealth Houston What to Know About Bug Bite Relief How fast do bug bite relief products work? Most bug bite relief products work within seconds. Products that rely on essential oils rather than chemicals might take a little longer to work—up to one minute. When should you apply something to a bug bite? It's normal to get a mild reaction to mosquito bites—you'll usually find that the redness develops about 20 minutes after the bite followed by an itchy firm bump that forms over the next day or two and can last for 7-10 days, Dr. Maples says. You should apply a product to the bug bite as soon as you feel discomfort. Bug bite relief products work almost instantly, so the faster you apply it to the affected area, the quicker you'll find relief. Always make sure to apply it to clean skin. Who We Are April Benshosan is a writer for Health.com who has struggled with extra-itchy bug bites her entire life. Many of the options on this list are ones she currently uses and personally recommends. April has interviewed countless doctors and other medical professionals throughout her career, and her work highlights her passion for arming people with the information they need to make informed decisions about their health. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit 3 Sources Health.com uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Liu, B. and Jordt, S.-E. (2018) ‘Cooling the itch via TRPM8’, Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 138(6). Kurtz ES, Wallo W. Colloidal oatmeal: history, chemistry and clinical properties. J Drugs Dermatol. 2007;6(2):167-170. FDA. CFR—Code of Federal Regulations Title 21.