The Best Bug Bite Relief

Pest Strategies

The stinging and itching sensations that occur after a bug bite can be painful. Pest Strategies researched the best bug bite relief products on Amazon to help you find the option that will soothe your discomfort and minimize inflammation. Check out our top recommendations below.

1 Best ointment
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001KY7LAM

Cortizone Bug Bite Relief

What We Like: Going beyond bug bite relief, this topical solution also helps with skin irritation as a result of an allergic reaction to jewelry or clothing. The ointment uses aloe to hydrate the affected area and hydrocortisone to relieve stinging. This product can be used three to four times per day as needed.

2 Best suction tool
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01576DWQU

BUG BITE THING Bug Bite Relief

What We Like: This product works by directly removing bodily fluids or parts that the bug has injected into your skin, essentially functioning as a reverse bite. The suctioning effect is intended to be pain-free. Plus, the tool can be used in conjunction with an ointment or other topical treatment.

3 Best lotion
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KM2P7DQ

Caladryl Bug Bite Relief

What We Like: Sold in a six-ounce bottle, this bug bite relief lotion is small enough to carry in your bag but large enough to provide you with relief after multiple bug bites. It can be used reactively after bug bites occur or as a preventative if you plan on spending a lot of time outdoors. This lotion also works against skin irritation from poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac.

4 Best applicator
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PJ5TNPP

After Bite Bug Bite Relief

What We Like: These portable applicator pens easily fit into backpacks, pockets, or purses, taking up little space and adding minimal weight but being ready for you if you experience a bug bite. This anti-itch solution also contains no parabens and is cruelty-free.

5 Best patch
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B097FBZGWV

BuzzPatch Bug Bite Relief

What We Like: These relief patches use a patented grid-shaped design to mechanically adjust the skin and help the lymphatic system drain the insect’s saliva. Kids may be especially receptive to using these patches because they come in fun colors and don’t leave a sticky or slimy residue behind like ointment.

Buying Guide

From topical creams to suction tools, there are a number of ways to relieve bug bites. Here’s more information on the types of relief tools as well as other factors that will help you make an informed purchase.

Type: Topical creams, suction tools, and patches are three common ways to relieve discomfort from bug bites.

Topical: Topical solutions, lotions, and ointments are rubbed directly on the affected area. They usually contain a powerful analgesic, such as lidocaine, that numbs the area to reduce pain.

Suction: These bug bite relief tools are useful in tandem with topical solutions. They use suction to draw an insect’s poison or stinger out of the affected area.

Patch: Patches are a standalone, chemical-free bug bite solution. They adjust your skin, helping the lymphatic system drain the insect’s saliva.

Size/Quantity: The majority of bug bite relief products are small and lightweight for on-the-go use. You can usually fit them in your backpack or purse so that you always have them on hand when you’re outdoors.

Ingredients: Chemical-free ingredients, such as baking soda and essential oils, can provide itching and stinging relief. Though these natural ingredients won’t numb more painful bug bites as effectively as conventional analgesics, they’re an option.

FAQs

How long does it take for topical ointments to relieve pain from bug bites?

Many ointments use analgesics that provide a cooling sensation immediately after application. However, it can take up to 20 minutes to get full relief.

Are bug bite relief products safe to use around my children?

Though many bug bite relief creams are safe to use on children as young as two years old, none of them are safe for children to ingest or play with. We recommend storing these products where your children can’t access them.

Should I put a bandage on a bug bite?

Placing a bandage on top of a bug bite will prevent it from being further irritated and remind you not to scratch it. Use a topical bug bite treatment first before applying a bandage.

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.