Bug bites are a common nuisance in the summer months. Mosquitoes, flies, spiders, and other insects can leave itchy, irritating marks on your skin when they bite. Some people swear by applying clear nail polish to bug bites to stop the itching and help them heal faster. But does this DIY remedy really work?
What causes the itching from bug bites?
When an insect like a mosquito bites you, it pierces your skin with its sharp mouthparts and injects saliva that contains proteins that cause an allergic reaction. Your immune system responds by releasing histamine, which is what causes the redness, swelling, irritation, and itchiness around the bite.
Here are some facts about common biting insects and their saliva:
- Mosquitoes – The saliva of mosquitoes contains proteins that can cause delayed allergic reactions resulting in itchy bumps on the skin.
- Flies – Bites from flies like horse flies and stable flies also provoke an immune reaction leading to pain, swelling, and itching.
- Spiders – Spider bites contain chemical irritants and proteins that produce local inflammation, pain, and itching.
- Bed bugs – Although not technically insects, bed bugs pierce the skin and inject saliva that causes inflamed welts and profound itching.
So in summary, bug bite reactions are caused by the immune system responding to foreign proteins and chemicals injected by the insect’s saliva during the bite.
How does clear nail polish help bug bites?
Applying a layer of clear nail polish directly over a bug bite is thought to work in several ways:
- Seals the bite – Clear polish forms a protective barrier over the bite, keeping it clean and sealing out air, water, and irritants.
- Stops scratching – The polish provides a physical barrier that prevents you from scratching and further irritating the bite.
- Soothes inflammation – Some think that nail polish’s acetone ingredient has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe itching and swelling.
- Dries out the bite – The polish’s drying effect removes moisture from the bite, speeding up healing.
So in summary, the theory is that clear polish can reduce itching, inflammation, and irritation by protecting, drying, and possibly disinfecting the bug bite.
What does the science say about clear nail polish for bug bites?
There has been little scientific research specifically looking at using nail polish for bug bite care. But a few studies provide some evidence:
- One study found coating bug bites with clear nail polish reduced itching compared to leaving them uncovered.
- Another study found nail polish was effective at sealing mosquito bites to prevent scratching and reduce local skin reactions.
- Some minor antibacterial and antifungal effects of nail polish have been noted in lab tests.
Overall the science suggests clear polish may provide a protective barrier over bites. But no studies have confirmed anti-inflammatory or healing effects.
Should you use clear nail polish on bug bites?
Based on the available evidence, it seems reasonable to try clear nail polish on bug bites under the following circumstances:
- To protect a bite from dirt, irritation, and scratching as it heals.
- For mild itching and swelling from non-venomous insects like mosquitoes.
- If you have no known allergies or sensitivities to nail polish ingredients.
However, clear polish should not be used:
- On bites that are already severely swollen, infected, or oozing.
- Over bites from potentially venomous insects like spiders, bees, or wasps.
- On children who may try to peel off the polish and make things worse.
You should also avoid nail polish if you have sensitivities or allergies to acetone or other chemicals in the products.
How to use clear nail polish on insect bites
If you want to try using clear nail polish on a minor bug bite for relief, follow these tips:
- Wash and thoroughly dry the bite first with soap and water.
- Apply a layer of 100% clear (not colored) nail polish directly over the bite using a clean applicator.
- Let the polish dry completely before touching. Repeat for a second coat if needed.
- Cover the bite for 6-12 hours before gently removing with nail polish remover.
- Watch for signs of worsening reaction and avoid reapplying polish.
- See a doctor if the bite does not improve within 1-2 days.
Other remedies for bug bite itching and swelling
Along with clear nail polish, there are several other natural remedies commonly used to find relief from bug bites:
| Remedy | How It Works |
|---|---|
| Cold compress | Cools the skin to reduce swelling, inflammation, and itching |
| Aloe vera gel | Soothes and hydrates skin, provides cooling effect |
| Baking soda paste | Helps neutralize venom, reduces itching |
| Honey | Has antimicrobial properties, eases irritation |
| Essential oils | Tea tree, lavender, eucalyptus oils provide anti-inflammatory, anti-itch effects |
The best remedy depends on the type and severity of the bite. Mild itching may respond to cold compresses, aloe vera, or baking soda paste. More swollen, painful bites may require antihistamines or hydrocortisone cream.
When to seek medical treatment for insect bites
Most mild bug bites can be treated safely at home. But see a doctor right away if you experience:
- Signs of infection like pus, worsening swelling, red streaks, fever.
- Persistent severe itching or pain that prevents sleep.
- A single bite that swells larger than a few inches across.
- Multiple bites in a small area of the body.
- Any difficulty breathing, dizziness, racing heartbeat, or faintness.
- A bite from a potentially venomous insect like a wasp, spider, or scorpion.
Severe reactions require professional medical care to prevent complications and relieve symptoms. So see a doctor or visit urgent care for evaluation of any bite that concerns you.
Conclusion
Based on the evidence, clear nail polish may help provide some temporary protection and soothing relief when applied over mild bug bites. It can seal out irritants and prevent scratching to aid healing. However, severe bites or those infected or oozing fluid should be evaluated by a doctor instead of treated with polish.
While not definitively proven, clear nail polish is an inexpensive, accessible option to try for taking the bite out of bothersome bug bites this summer. Along with keeping the bite covered, be sure to clean it, apply cold compresses, avoid scratching, and use anti-itch creams or oral antihistamines as needed for relief.