Wash the area with mild soap and water
Apply a cold pack or ice wrapped in a cloth for 10–15 minutes, repeat as needed
Use an over-the-counter hydrocortisone 1% cream on itchy spots 1–2 times daily for up to 7 days
Take an oral antihistamine for itch (follow label directions), such as cetirizine, loratadine, or fexofenadine
Use diphenhydramine at night if needed for itching (follow label directions; may cause drowsiness)
Apply calamine lotion or an anti-itch lotion (follow label directions)
Avoid scratching; keep nails trimmed
Use a clean, loose dressing if scratching is hard to avoid
Keep the skin moisturized with a fragrance-free lotion if dry
Take a pain reliever if needed for discomfort (follow label directions), such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen
Seek urgent care if you have trouble breathing, widespread hives, facial/lip swelling, dizziness, or a rapidly spreading rash
Seek medical advice if redness, warmth, swelling, or pain rapidly worsen, or if there’s pus or fever (possible infection)
Contact a clinician if bites are on/near the eyes, genital area, or if reactions are severe or recurrent