Should you apply a hot spoon to a mosquito bite?
Dr. Vichitra Sharma, a dermatologist at Amrita Hospital Faridabad (India) - said that using a hot spoon to control itching after being bitten by a mosquito is a popular practice.
The essence of applying a hot spoon to a mosquito bite is based on the principle that heat can break down the proteins in mosquito saliva that cause itching and inflammation. When a mosquito bites, it injects saliva containing proteins that can trigger an immune response, resulting in itching, redness, and swelling.
“Theoretically, heat could denature (create a series of changes) these proteins, potentially reducing the itching sensation,” explains Dr. Vichitra Sharma.
However, as a dermatologist, Ms. Sharma cautions against this method because of the risk of burns.
Because the temperatures required to denature proteins are relatively high, there is a fine line between using enough heat to be effective and potentially causing skin burns.
While some people advocate the use of heat, the risk of a burn can be more damaging than the initial bite. The skin over a mosquito bite is already inflamed and sensitive, and applying heat can make the problem worse.
What happens when you get bitten by a mosquito?
When you get bitten, a mosquito injects saliva into your skin, Dr. Sharma explains. This saliva contains substances that your body reacts to, causing itching and swelling.
“Histamine in mosquito saliva is the main culprit behind the itchy feeling. Histamine is also released by cells in the body in response to mosquito bites. Proteins/peptides in mosquito saliva can trigger the release of histamine and other chemicals in the body,” the dermatologist said.
Histamine not only makes you itch, it also causes local vasodilation (widening of blood vessels) and edema, swelling. This leads to the red bumps you see after a mosquito bite.
Safer solution
Applying a cold pack or ice wrapped in cloth to the bite can help reduce swelling and numb the area, which can help relieve itching, says Dr. Sharma.
Scratching can make the irritation worse, increase inflammation, and potentially lead to infection. It can also break the skin, creating an entry point for bacteria and leading to complications such as cellulitis.
Dr. Sharma also mentioned that some home remedies may not be effective and may further irritate the skin. For example, using vinegar or certain essential oils that are not properly diluted can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.
