6/10
Ice
Don’t overlook ice as a great, easy way to get relief from painful insect bites. Ice numbs skin and reduces inflammation, providing both short- and long-term relief. But never apply ice directly to your skin or leave an ice pack on for an extended period time, as that can damage your skin.
7/10
Lemon or Lime Juice
Try applying a little bit of lemon or lime juice to ant bites to reduce the pain and discomfort. The juices also work well on removing the itch from mosquito bites. But take caution. Don’t apply lemon or lime juice to bites you’ve scratched, or the juice will sting. And don’t sit in the sun after applying, as the juices may lead to sunburn.
8/10
Oatmeal
Taking an oatmeal bath has long been an easy way to sooth the angry, itchy skin that often results from bug bites. So if you’re covered in bites from mosquitoes, flies or ants, sprinkle a cup of oatmeal into a tub of water, then soak for 20 minutes. You can also combine oatmeal and water into a paste, then place it on individual bites or stings.
