Mosquitoes are able to detect their prey from various sensory triggers. Birds and mammals exhale carbon dioxide and this can be sensed by mosquitoes. The chemicals present in sweat also draw mosquitoes and individuals who do not sweat much are less prone to being bitten. Dark or bright colored clothing sets you apart from the surroundings and this allows mosquitoes to easily detect you. Mosquitoes are also able to detect heat and as such are attracted to mammals and birds since they are warm blooded. The female mosquito bites in order to produce eggs. When a mosquito bites, it injects saliva into the skin and the proteins contained in the saliva prevent blood coagulation from taking place. They also allow the blood to flow easily into the mouth of the mosquito.
Mosquito bites result in swelling and redness and a great deal of itching. The best way to get relief from mosquito bites is to wet the area slightly and then rub a bit of salt on the area. This should cause the itching to stop quite quickly. Apple cider vinegar can also be applied directly to the affected areas for relief from the itching. A quick and easy method to treat mosquito bites is to dab some toothpaste on the bites. This should limit the itching in a matter of minutes. Peppermint toothpaste works best for treating mosquito bites. Ammonia is known to be extremely effective in treating itching and can be applied on the affected areas. A paste of baking soda and witch hazel may also be rubbed on the areas of the bites. You may apply and leave it on for fifteen minutes, before rinsing it off.
Aloe vera is an excellent remedy for all types of skin conditions. The gel extracted from fresh aloe vera leaves may be applied to the bites. This will ease the itching as well as quicken the healing of the wound. Aloe gel based products may also be used, in case fresh aloe vera is not available. Lemon is very effective in alleviating the itching. It also helps to reduce the risk of infection occurring due to repeated scratching of the bites. If you feel the urge to scratch, you can take a slice of lemon and rub the bite with it. This will arrest the possibility of infection. A paste of baking soda and water may also be applied to the affected areas. Rubbing the areas with a clove of garlic will help to prevent itching and irritation.