by When mosquitoes suck blood from your body, the tiny flying insects leave behind red, itchy marks. It doesn’t take long for the itching and swelling to go away. But we scratch so much that we end up with brown spots and scars. You can always wait for the marks to disappear, but they take their time. You don’t have to wait months for dark spots to disappear. On the occasion of World Mosquito Day, celebrated every year on August 20, we tell you how to get rid of mosquito bite scars relatively faster.
When a mosquito bites, it deposits saliva in the skin. Saliva which contains anticoagulant enzymes, says Dr. Akriti Gupta, cosmetic dermatologist, Jivisha Clinic, New Delhi. Depending on our resistance to these enzymes, inflammation occurs in the affected area. There is also an increase in melanin, which makes the skin hyperpigmented or darker. If another mosquito bites you again in the same area, it can have a cumulative effect. This will cause more noticeable black marks over time.
Tips to Get Rid of Mosquito Bite Scars
The duration of mosquito bite scars can vary depending on factors such as the severity of the bite and the quality of care given to the area. Most mosquito bite scars fade within weeks or months as the skin naturally regenerates, dissolving excess melanin. But sometimes it takes much longer to disappear. So you can try to speed up healing by following these tips.
1. Topical creams
Over-the-counter creams made with ingredients like hydroquinone, vitamin C, or retinoids can help lighten dark spots and promote skin cell turnover. This will help reduce the appearance of scars, says the expert. These mosquito bite scar creams work by inhibiting melanin and promoting the growth of new, healthy skin cells.
2. Cleanse or exfoliate the skin
A chemical exfoliant or massage can be used to remove dead skin cells and rejuvenate the skin. This can help scars fade over time.
3. Silicone gel sheets
Silicone sheets or patches can be placed over mosquito bite scars to create a protective barrier. This will help hydrate the skin and improve its texture.
4. Sun protection
UV rays can exacerbate the appearance of scars by darkening them. Applying a sunscreen with a high SPF to the scarred area can prevent further pigmentation and protect the skin as it heals.
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5. Home remedies
Some natural ingredients like aloe vera, lemon juice or honey have soothing and skin lightening properties. Applying these natural ingredients to scars can help reduce their appearance, Dr. Gupta tells Health Shots.
6. Dermatological treatments
Dermatological procedures such as chemical peels, microdermabrasion, laser therapy, or corticosteroid injections can be performed by professionals to target more stubborn scars. These treatments work by promoting skin cell turnover, breaking down scar tissue and encouraging collagen production.
Ways to prevent mosquito bites
You don’t have to think about scars if there are no mosquito bites. So, to prevent mosquito bites, consider the following effective methods:
1. Use mosquito repellent
Use mosquito repellent on exposed skin. But follow label directions for safe and effective use.
2. Cover up
Cover your skin by wearing long-sleeved tops, long pants, socks and closed-toe shoes, especially during peak times of mosquito activity, such as dawn and dusk, suggests the expert.
4. Avoid standing water
Mosquitoes breed in standing water, so regularly empty, cover, or treat any containers or areas where water collects. This means frequently checking your flower pots, gutters and birdbaths.
5. Use mosquito nets
When sleeping in areas with high mosquito activity, use insecticide-treated bed nets to create a barrier between you and mosquitoes.
This way you can significantly reduce your risk of mosquito bites.
