Take an oral antihistamine such as cetirizine, loratadine, or fexofenadine
Use diphenhydramine if you need faster relief and can tolerate drowsiness
Apply a cool compress to the affected areas
Take a cool or lukewarm bath with colloidal oatmeal
Avoid hot showers, heat, sweating, and tight clothing
Stop using any new soap, lotion, detergent, or cosmetic that may have triggered them
Avoid known food, medication, or insect triggers
Do not scratch the hives
Use calamine lotion or a fragrance-free anti-itch lotion
Seek urgent medical help if you have swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat, trouble breathing, dizziness, or fainting
See a doctor if hives last more than a few days, keep coming back, or are severe