Mosquitoes leave behind a trail of saliva after they bite. Dr. Akriti Gupta, Cosmetic Dermatologist at Jivisha Clinic in New Delhi, explains that the saliva includes anticoagulant enzymes. Our tolerance to these enzymes determines the degree of inflammation that develops in the affected area. After sucking blood from a human or animal, mosquitoes leave behind red, stinging welts.
In a short amount of time, the itching and swelling will subside. However, your itching causes permanent discoloration and scarring. Marks can be removed by waiting for them to fade away on their own time. The dark stains won’t go away throughout the course of several months. Worldwide awareness of mosquito issues is promoted every year on August 20th, World Mosquito Day.
The skin becomes hyperpigmented (darker) due to an increase in melanin. A second mosquito bite in the same location can add to the initial infection. More and more permanent black marks will appear as a result. Scars from mosquito bites can last for a while, but how long they stay visible depends on a number of circumstances. As the skin naturally regenerates and dissolves excess melanin, most scars left by mosquito bites heal within a few weeks to a few months. Sometimes, though, the effect takes a lot longer to disappear. Therefore, you can use these suggestions to hasten recovery.
- Formulations applied directly on the skin
Hydroquinone, vitamin C, and retinoids are just a few of the substances found in over-the-counter lotions that can reduce the appearance of black spots and speed up the skin’s natural renewal process. The professional claims that this will help conceal scars. To reduce the appearance of scarring from mosquito bites, use a lotion that inhibits melanin production while also stimulating the production of new, healthy skin cells.
2. Exfoliate and/or wash your face
Skin rejuvenation can be achieved with the use of a chemical exfoliant or massage. Scars may eventually fade if this is done.
3. Sheets of silicone gel
Scars left by mosquito bites can be protected from further damage by applying a silicone sheet or patch over them. It will aid in keeping the skin hydrated and smooth.
4. A shield from the sun
Scars can be made to look even worse by prolonged exposure to UV light. A high SPF sunscreen applied to the scarred region can shield the skin from sun damage and keep it from darkening any further as it recovers.5. Natural treatments
Aloe vera, lemon juice, and honey are just a few examples of natural compounds with skin-calming and -lightening qualities. Dr. Gupta tells Health Shots that applying these natural compounds to scars may help minimise their visibility.
Dermatological therapies, number six
More severe scars may require professional dermatological procedures including chemical peels, microdermabrasion, laser therapy, or corticosteroid injections. These therapies improve skin health by hastening the turnover of skin cells, diminishing the formation of scar tissue, and stimulating the creation of collagen.
How to protect yourself against mosquitoes
In the absence of mosquito bites, concerns about scarring are unnecessary. Here are some tried-and-true strategies for warding off mosquito bites:
1. Put on some bug spray
Apply insect repellant on bare skin. However, for optimal safety and efficacy, use only as directed.
2. Disguise
The expert recommends covering up as much flesh as possible by wearing long sleeves and trousers, as well as socks and shoes with closed toes, especially between the hours of dawn and dark when mosquitoes are most active.
4. Stay away from standing water
Any containers or outdoor spaces that collect water should be emptied, covered, or treated on a regular basis to prevent mosquito breeding. That involves keeping an eye on things like bird baths, gutters, and flower pots.
The fifth tip is to make use of mosquito netting. Use insecticide-treated netting to keep mosquitoes at bay while you snooze in places where they are prevalent. In this approach, you’ll have a far lower chance of getting bitten by a mosquito.
