Insect Bite on Skin: What to Know

The bump is a response to saliva or other material introduced during the bite. Redness, warmth, itching and a small central mark can occur around the site. Scratching may break the skin and allow infection, while repeated bites can leave darker marks after healing. A lingering dark patch is called Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation.

Wash the area gently with soap and water, then use a cool clean compress to ease itch and swelling. Avoid scratching; keep fingernails short and cover the spot lightly if sleep makes scratching difficult. A pharmacist or clinician can advise whether Antihistamine Treatment or Topical Corticosteroids suit your symptoms, age, medicines and body area. Do not apply products to broken skin unless advised.

Get urgent help for trouble breathing, swelling of the lips, tongue or throat, faintness, or widespread itchy welts. Arrange prompt medical review if redness is rapidly enlarging, pain or warmth is increasing, pus appears, fever develops, or the bite is near the eye. Seek advice when symptoms are not improving or when the insect cannot be identified and the reaction is unusual.

Ask whether the appearance fits a bite, which treatment is appropriate for the location, and how to protect the skin from scratching. Mention the time of the bite, new symptoms, travel or outdoor exposure, and any medicine or allergy history.