Insect bite creams should have antihistamine, anti-inflammatory, soothing, or protective properties to help relieve itching, redness, or swelling caused by insect bites.
Some options include creams that contain diphenhydramine, hydrocortisone, or dexamethasone, which can be found at pharmacies and drugstores. It’s important to follow medical guidance when using these products.
If an insect bite causes symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, such as swelling of an entire limb, facial or mouth swelling, or difficulty breathing, you should seek immediate medical attention or go to the nearest emergency room.
Bug bite cream options
Some creams that can be used for insect bites include:
1. Diphenhydramine
Diphenhydramine cream is an antihistamine that helps relieve itching and redness caused by insect bites.
It can be found in products like Benadryl Extra Strength Itch Stopping Cream or generic diphenhydramine creams. It should not be used on children under 2 years old, during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or on broken or blistered skin.
How to use: Apply to the affected area up to 3 or 4 times a day as needed. Do not cover the treated area and avoid applying near the eyes, mouth, genitals, or other mucous membranes.
2. Dexamethasone
Dexamethasone cream is a corticosteroid with potent anti-inflammatory properties that helps control inflammation and relieve symptoms such as redness, swelling, or itching caused by insect bites.
It is available under the brand names DexPak or Decadron, or as a generic labeled “dexamethasone acetate.” It should not be used by children, pregnant women, or people allergic to corticosteroids.
How to use: Apply to the affected skin 2 or 3 times daily, gently massaging for better absorption until symptoms improve. Wash hands and the affected skin with mild soap and water before applying the cream.
3. Hydrocortisone
Hydrocortisone cream is a corticosteroid that helps relieve itching, redness, or swelling caused by insect bites due to its anti-inflammatory action.
It can be found as over-the-counter products like Cortizone-10 or as generic hydrocortisone cream. It should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or by people allergic to hydrocortisone or other corticosteroids.
How to use: Apply a thin layer to the affected skin 2 to 3 times daily, massaging gently. Avoid contact with eyes, nose, or other mucous membranes.
4. Benzalkonium chloride
Benzalkonium chloride is an antiseptic often combined with other ingredients like zinc oxide or camphor to reduce pain, discomfort, itching, and inflammation from insect bites while promoting skin healing.
It can be found in products like Bactine MAX Itch Relief Cream. It should not be used by children under 2 years old or by anyone allergic to its components.
How to use: Apply a thin layer to the affected skin 2 times per day until symptoms improve.
5. Calamine and zinc oxide creams
Calamine and zinc oxide have soothing and protective properties that help reduce irritation and promote skin healing.
They can be found in products such as Caladryl Lotion, Aveeno Anti-Itch Lotion, or zinc oxide ointments. These products can be used by adults and children and are especially helpful for mosquito or chigger bites.
How to use: Apply a thin layer over the affected skin 2 to 3 times daily until symptoms improve.
6. Pramoxine
Pramoxine is a topical anesthetic that helps relieve itching and pain caused by insect bites.
It is available in creams such as Sarna Sensitive Anti-Itch Lotion or Caladryl Lotion. It can be used by adults and children older than 2 years and is a good option for people with sensitive skin who cannot use antihistamines or steroids.
How to use: Apply to the affected area up to 3 or 4 times per day. Avoid use on open wounds or near the eyes, mouth, or genitals.
7. Lidocaine or benzocaine
Lidocaine and benzocaine are local anesthetics that numb the skin and quickly reduce itching and burning caused by insect bites.
They are available in creams and gels such as Aspercreme with Lidocaine, Lanacane Maximum Strength, or Americaine. These products should not be used on large skin areas or on children under 2 years old unless directed by a doctor.
How to use: Apply a small amount to the affected skin 3 to 4 times daily as needed. Avoid use on broken or irritated skin.
8. Natural soothing creams
Some creams and gels contain natural ingredients that help reduce inflammation and calm irritation from insect bites.
Common examples include After Bite Classic (contains ammonia), Badger After Bug Balm (with calendula and chamomile), aloe vera gel, and menthol-based creams like Gold Bond Medicated Anti-Itch Cream. These can be good options for mild bites or for people who prefer natural treatments.
How to use: Apply a small amount of the product to the affected skin 2 to 3 times per day or as directed on the label.