A spray aerosol is highly recommended for you, the easygoing person bitten by bugs.

 

The war against bugs has begun with the heat. There are various medications used when bitten by insects, such as ointments, creams, lotions, gels, liquids, patches, and aerosols, but choosing the appropriate formulation for the affected area or symptoms is most effective.

 

Steroid ointment for simple itching

 

If it itches, use a corticosteroid (steroid ointment). However, applying it to the scalp can clog pores and cause inflammation, so water-soluble lotions or gel formulations are preferable for the scalp.

 

When itching and pain occur together, medications containing antihistamines, salicylic acid, menthol, and camphor are used. However, camphor-containing products should not be used in children under 30 months due to the risk of seizures.

 

Professor Kim Hye-sung of the Department of Dermatology at Catholic University Incheon St. Mary's Hospital explained, "Ingredients such as menthol, camphor, and dibucaine (local anesthetics) can stimulate the nervous system and cause pediatric seizures," and added, "Steroid ointments are used when inflammation is severe, but prolonged use can thin the skin and dilate blood vessels, so caution is needed."

 

■ Aerosol and gel for areas with abundant body hair

 

For areas with a lot of hair, such as the scalp, non-sticky formulations like aerosols or gels are recommended. However, aerosols should be avoided around the face because they can easily get into the eyes, nose, or mouth. Shake well and spray from a distance of 15-30cm. The effect lasts for about 4-5 hours per application, so do not spray too frequently.

 

Gel is well absorbed by the skin and does not have a sealing effect, making it suitable for use on the scalp, face, or areas with body hair or delicate skin. When applied around the eyes, it may cause a cooling sensation, and due to its limited moisturizing effect, it is not suitable for dry skin.

 

■If you dislike stickiness, use lotion... for hands, feet, and palms, use cream or ointment.

 

If you dislike stickiness, a lotion formulation that absorbs quickly into the skin and can be spread widely is preferable. For areas with relatively thick skin, such as the palms and soles, apply creams or ointments that provide good moisturizing effects and skin absorption. If the bitten area swells, use medications containing anti-inflammatory agents like Enoxolone (Glycyrrhetinic acid) or antibiotics.

 

Liquid formulations are cool and easy to apply, while adhesive forms (hydrocolloid bands) have astringent effects and relieve itching but lack anti-inflammatory properties, so they should not be used if the skin is significantly swollen.

 

Pharmacist So-yong Bae from the Hanyang University Hospital Pharmacy Team said, "The patch lasts for 4 to 5 hours, so if itching continues, it should be replaced 4 to 5 times a day," and "If left on for a long time without replacement, it will have no effect and contact dermatitis may occur."

 

■Use insect repellent and mosquito nets actively

 

Since insects are attracted to sweat odors and high body temperatures, it is helpful to wash thoroughly after going out and to reduce greasy foods, alcohol, and other heat-raising foods. It is also good to actively use insect repellents, mosquito coils, and mosquito nets containing ingredients that insects dislike.

 

If symptoms such as generalized allergic reactions, especially ▲wheezing ▲difficulty breathing ▲vomiting ▲diarrhea ▲rapid heartbeat ▲dizziness occur after applying the medication, you must stop use immediately.

 

Pharmacist Soyongbae emphasized, "Scratching or applying saliva to insect bites can cause secondary infections around the wound, worsening dermatitis," and added, "The ingredients in repellents vary depending on age and pregnancy restrictions, so it is essential to check the product contraindications."