How Long Do Mosquito Bites Last?

Serving Pompano Beach, Boynton Beach, and surrounding areas

For most people, mosquito bites only last for a few days. After three or four days, the pink appearance disappears but swelling can last up to seven days. The three most likely reasons for mosquito bites to linger longer than a few days include:

• Inflammation
• Infection
• Allergies

Scratching mosquito bites can cause inflammation and sometimes result in bites becoming infected. Scratching and opening the scab can destroy new skin that is forming underneath and cause scarring and infections. When infected mosquito bites become inflamed, they may leave a permanent scar. People who are allergic to mosquitoes risk increased blistering, redness, and lingering inflammation, which also increases the risk of scarring.

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation

Some mosquito bites leave small dark circles on the skin – a condition known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. These spots may fade after a few months and can be treated with:

• Over-the-counter anti-scarring creams
• Aloe vera gel
• Massage
• And other home remedies 

Keloid Scarring

Other people may just be more prone to scarring, when anything breaks the top skin layer, such as mosquito bites. These scars, known as keloid scars, can grow larger than the original mosquito bite wound. Usually permanent, keloid scars are raised deposits of collagen.

Do Mosquito Bites Itch More at Night?

Many people who experience mosquito bites notice more irritation at night. Unfortunately, this is thanks to several factors that can make itching more noticeable and harder to ignore:

• Fewer distractions: When you’re winding down for the night, you’re more likely to notice the itching, as you’re less active and focused on fewer things.
• Lower cortisol levels: Cortisol, the body’s natural anti-inflammatory hormone, is typically lower at night, which means your body has less ability to reduce swelling and itchiness.
• Increased blood flow: As you sleep, blood circulation to the skin increases to release heat, which can intensify the itchiness of mosquito bites.
• Hormonal fluctuations: Anti-inflammatory hormones such as corticosteroids are lower at night, making your skin more sensitive to irritation.

Avoiding Other Issues with Mosquito Bites

More importantly, mosquitoes transmit many pathogens, such as Zika virus, Chickamauga, malaria, yellow fever, West Nile virus, and others, so proactive mosquito prevention and protection from mosquitoes can help to avoid mosquito bites. Using insect repellent with DEET and wearing long-sleeve shirts and long pants at dawn and dusk can help protect you from mosquito bites.

If your Pompano Beach yard seems to have more mosquitoes than ever, contact Petri Pest Control Services to discuss our mosquito reduction services today.