We all look forward to summer approaching. However, with warmer weather comes a higher chance of getting bitten by insects. Insect bites are a staple part of warm weather and while they usually are considered harmless, they can cause complications.
While creams and ointments can help, using natural ingredients for insect bites offer a gentle, soothing alternative to overcome the itch.
How Do Insect Bites Affect the Skin?
There are many different breeds of insects, so the severity of insect bites can vary depending on your location, skin type and genetic predisposition. Generally speaking, insect bites will present as a red bump or itchy lesion at the site where the bite occurred. Common symptoms of insect bites include:
- Skin irritation
- Inflammation
- Swelling
- A bump at the location of bite mark
- Redness
- Itching
- Keloid scarring
The appearance of insect bites may differ as we get older, with children more likely experiencing larger mosquito bite reactions and will tend to reduce in size into adulthood. Insect bites can linger over two to three days before disappearing completely.
The severity of insect bites can differ depending on where you live, the species of insect, have sensitive skin or are anaphylactic. Furthermore, if the skin is broken, it can be easy for bacteria to enter the wound, causing further complications.
Those with allergies (especially in children) or more serious bites, may experience side effects, such as:
- Infection
- Allergic reactions
- Burning sensation
If you are worried you are suffering from an allergic reaction to an insect, it is recommended to visit your GP or healthcare professional for immediate treatment.
The Benefits of Natural Ingredients for Treating Insect Bites
While using ointments and creams can help provide relief from irritation brought on from pesky insect bites, some cosmetic products are known to use chemical ingredients that can penetrate your skin into your bloodstream. Not only can this cause further skin problems, but they also only offer temporary relief for your skin.
With natural ingredients, you can enjoy a soothing, gentler alternative for your skin and help treat insect bites. Natural ingredients can also help target common symptoms of insect bites such as scars and redness, leaving your skin feeling healthier and happier for longer.
4 Natural Ingredients to Treat Insect Bites
Natural ingredients are perfect for soothing and healing irritated, broken and inflamed skin as a result of insect bites. Here are four natural ingredients that are known to help treat insect bites:
Shea Butter
Shea butter has a high concentration of fatty acids as well as is filled with anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants. This naturally soothing ingredient promotes cell regeneration in broken skin and deeply penetrates to soothe rashes, inflammation and irritation. Shea butter is well-known for its ability to moisturise dry skin and work to reduce the appearance of blemishes and scars that may result from insect bites.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is great for soothing inflamed skin and works to calm swelling and redness associated with insect bites. It also has powerful antibacterial properties to help protect the skin and fight against bacteria that may enter through broken skin. Coconut oil also promotes healing through cell regeneration without drying the skin out. This makes it perfect for relieving irritated skin while building up moisture.
Sea Buckthorn
Packed with anti-inflammatory properties, antioxidants, amino and folic acids and Vitamins B1, B2, K, A and E, sea buckthorn is an effective ingredient for treating insect bites. Sea buckthorn soothes itchy skin, protects skin from environmental damage and helps with the appearance of scars as a result of insect bites. It can also work to reduce redness and swelling for those looking to calm the irritation of insect bites.
Camellia Tea Oil
Camellia tea oil is filled with fatty acids, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It not only works to improve skin elasticity to help reduce the appearance of scars but also works to soothe irritated and broken skin. It is also known to act as a powerful protectant against radical damage, allowing your skin to naturally heal.
Discover Black Chicken Remedies’ Natural Body Balms
With 100% natural, toxin-free ingredients, Black Chicken Remedies offers Australian made natural body balms designed to revitalise and renew your skin. Formulated for all skin types, our multi-purpose body balm provides a natural remedy for treating insect bites, perfect for gently soothing and healing your skin.
Balm of Ages Body Balm
What is Balm of Ages?
Our organic Balm of Ages is a multi-purpose balm perfect for soothing inflamed, irritated, swelling skin as a result of insect bites. With a unique combination of shea butter, hemp seed oil, jojoba oil, camellia tea oil and sea buckthorn, the Balm of Ages works to soothe inflammation, calm swelling and redness, while protecting the skin from bacteria and environmental damage.
Our vitamin-rich formula is filled with anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, antioxidants and fatty acids. This makes the Balm of Ages perfect for retaining moisture and soothing irritations. It also works to promote healing and reduces the appearance of scars and blemishes.
How to Apply Balm of Ages
Rub a small amount onto your hands until it melts then apply where needed. As a multi-purpose balm, you can also apply it to the skin and any other areas of concern, including the face, elbows, behind the knees, and arms.
For more information on how to apply Balm of Ages, check out our video guide.
Natural Remedies for Insect Bites
When using natural ingredients there are several ways you can use them to promote insect bite healing, these may include:
- Exfoliate the area
- Massage the area to promote blood flow
- Apply additional antibacterial ointments nightly
- Apply crushed ice to the area to help with irritation
When outdoors, always make sure you apply appropriate insect repellant to reduce your chances of getting bitten. If you are concerned or are looking for advice on scar removal or scar treatment suited for you, please visit your dermatologist.
Importance of a Natural Skincare Routine
A natural skincare routine gives you everything you need to soothe and heal your skin without having to worry about harsh products that may cause dryness or further irritation.
Whether you have a pestering insect bite or need some extra nourishment, natural ingredients are suited towards all skin types, helping to bring out the best your skin has to offer.
Enjoy a Natural Skincare Routine with Black Chicken Remedies
Black Chicken Remedies offer Australian made natural body balms and skincare products made with 100% natural ingredients. Our skincare range is easy to implement into any skincare routine. Suitable for men, women and kids, our natural skincare products provide a natural remedy to soothe and treat a range of skin complaints, including insect bites.
From balms, exfoliants to deodarants, Black Chicken Remedies have an exclusive product range focusing on clean, replenishing and natural skincare for all skin types.
