Fast and Effective Remedies for Chigger Bites

Chiggers, scientifically known as Neotrombicula autumnalis, and commonly referred to as autumn chiggers, harvest mites, bush mites, scrub-itch mites, berry bugs, or red bugs, are microscopic parasites from the Trombiculidae family. The larvae are incredibly tiny, measuring only 0.2 mm, and adults grow to around 1 mm, making them difficult to see without a magnifying glass. These larvae rely on their hosts, feeding off humans, domestic mammals, and some ground-nesting birds. Typically red or orange in color, the larvae turn yellow once they are full. Chiggers are most commonly found in the southeastern United States. They bite in clusters, attaching to the skin for hours or even days if not removed. While chigger bites can be uncomfortable, they can be treated at home to prevent infection and relieve symptoms. Let's explore the best remedies for chigger bites.

These little bugs bite anywhere on the body. However, they prefer to feed in areas where the skin is wrinkled and somewhat thin, frequently around the waistline and ankles. Other common places they like to bite include behind the knees, armpits, elbows, genital area, and groin. Furthermore, these bites typically look like blisters or small red bumps and are extremely itchy. Additionally, they may look like raised red hives or flat red areas. Itching generally occurs within a few hours and improves over a couple of days. The bites normally disappear within a week or two.

If you have discovered chigger bites on your body, you should shower immediately and wash thoroughly with soap to wash them off. Monitor the bites; although chigger bites are not serious, they can become infected if you scratch them. Any sign of pus or crusting could be an indication of a contagious bacterial skin infection called impetigo. Additionally, cellulitis, another bacterial infection, can also develop from bites.

Chiggers can attach themselves to fiber fabrics. So it is important that you wash your clothes or any blankets you may have used with hot water and detergent to kill any that are still present.

To relieve itching, you can take an oral over-the-counter antihistamine. Keep in mind that some antihistamines can make you drowsy, and the drowsiness can last for up to eight hours. Prices may vary depending on where you are purchasing from.

• Benadryl costs $19.19 for 100 tablets. Drowsy.
• Allegra costs $20.96 for 30 tablets. Non-drowsy.
• Equate costs $4.37 for 100 tablets. Drowsy.
• Claritin costs $23.12 for 30 tablets. Non-drowsy.
• Zyrtec costs $22.97 for 30 tablets. Non-drowsy.
• Chlorphen-12 costs $57.04 for 60 tablets. Drowsy.

To provide temporary relief from itching and help reduce inflammation, you can apply a cold compress to the affected areas. Use a clean cloth with ice or a bag of frozen vegetables and apply it to the skin for 15 minutes.

• Cost: $27.99
• Rating: 4.3

The Beurer BR90 is suitable for the whole family. It heals all stings and insect bites and helps against swelling and itching. It uses a special heat application to speed up the healing process. The bite pen does not contain any chemicals and is suitable for sensitive skin and pregnant women. For best results, use it immediately after a bite. According to Linda Han on Amazon's review, “This product is better than the hot water and metal spoon method. Probably the best product on the market. Hydrocortisone cream and Benadryl cream have become less effective for mosquito bite itching for me. This product is effective, portable, convenient, and affordable. I would like to see a USB rechargeable version of this product in the future.”

Basil oil may help with irritation caused by chigger bites. It is a mild anti-inflammatory with antimicrobial properties that prevent infection. It works well for all sorts of bug bites. Mix five drops per ounce with your favorite carrier oil, such as coconut oil, and then apply to the affected area.

Given its soothing qualities, chamomile is often used in lotions and other skincare products. It helps with irritation, redness, inflammation, and itching, which may speed up healing. 

Different types of hydrocortisone products can be purchased without a prescription. These creams should be used on the skin only. However, unless directed by your doctor, they should not be used under the arms or on the face. To apply, first, wash and dry your hands and clean the affected area. Shake well before using if you are using foam or lotion. Next, place a small amount on the affected area and gently rub it in. It can be applied up to four times per day. Wash your hands after each application. Additionally, stronger corticosteroid creams are available by prescription.

Vicks VapoRub isn’t just used for when you’re sick. Menthol is its main ingredient; not only does it cool the skin, but it also reduces the itching caused by bites.

Since ancient times, camphor has been used to treat inflammation, pain, and irritation. It can also aid in minimizing bug pain. It creates a tingling sensation on the skin. Mix five drops per ounce with your favorite carrier oil, such as avocado oil, and then apply to the affected area.

Tea tree fights all types of bug bites. It contains antimicrobials that avert bacterial infections. It is renowned for its anti-swelling, anti-pain, and anti-itching properties. First, fill a spray bottle with 1 cup of warm water. Next, add two to three drops of tea tree oil with two to three drops of your choice of carrier oil. Then, give the bottle a good shake and spray it onto your chigger bites.

Chigger bites cause an imbalance in the skin's pH level, which causes inflammation and itching. By using colloidal oatmeal, it will help lower the skin's pH if it is too high. Furthermore, it has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce inflammation and redness. Simply add a few spoons to a warm bath and soak in it for about 15–20 minutes. 

• Cost: $19.99
• Size: 6 fl oz
• Rating: 4.5

Tecnu Rash Relief Medicated Anti-Itch Spray with Scar Prevention is specially formulated to relieve itching caused by insect and bug bites, burns, sunburn, cuts, poison ivy, and scrapes. This homeopathic mixture promotes healing and prevents scarring. Furthermore, it does not contain hydrocortisone or steroids and has a mild tea tree fragrance. According to Iris on Amazon's review, “It actually works! I have purchased others, and this is by far one of the best ways to eliminate itchiness and irritation.”

One of the best remedies for chigger bites is aloe vera gel. It has therapeutic and soothing properties that can help relieve itching and reduce inflammation. All you have to do is rub the aloe vera gel directly on your chigger bites; it can be applied as needed. For an additional cooling effect, you can keep the gel in the fridge.

For a quick and effective home remedy, using a cotton ball, apply equal parts water and apple cider vinegar to the chigger bites. Allow it to air dry, then rinse with warm water. Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, apple cider vinegar can promote healing and reduce itching.

Finally, another effective home remedy to reduce inflammation and relieve itching from chigger and tick bites is to make a baking soda paste. First, mix equal parts water and baking soda to create a paste. Apply it directly to the chigger bites, then let it dry before rinsing it off with warm water. This can be done as often as needed.