What Does AfterBite Do? Exploring the Uses and Effects

Exploring the Uses and Effects of AfterBite for Insect Stings and Bites

Spending time outdoors in the warmer months means enjoying fresh air and sunshine, but it also means encountering insects like bees, wasps, mosquitoes, and more. Their stings and bites can result in pain, itching, swelling and irritation. AfterBite is a topical treatment designed to provide relief from discomfort caused by insect bites and stings.

What is AfterBite?

AfterBite is an over-the-counter medication that comes in cream, gel, and liquid forms. It contains three active ingredients:

• Ammonia - Helps reduce itching
• Baking Soda - Soothes irritated skin
• Benzalkonium Chloride - Relieves pain and acts as an antiseptic

Together, these ingredients work to lessen the uncomfortable symptoms associated with insect bites and stings when applied topically. The ammonia helps curb itching, the baking soda calms the affected area, and benzalkonium chloride reduces pain and cleanses the wound.

How Do Insect Bites and Stings Damage Skin?

When an insect like a bee, wasp, or mosquito bites or stings, it pierces the skin with sharp mouthparts. This causes localized injury and releases chemicals like:

• Histamine - Triggers inflammation and itching
• Acetylcholine - Causes pain signals
• Other proteins and peptides - Result in swelling, redness, etc.

In most cases, reactions are confined to the bite/sting site and dissipate within a few hours or days. However, some people can have severe allergic reactions that require immediate medical care.

Benefits and Effects of AfterBite

Applying AfterBite to areas of insect bites or stings provides the following beneficial effects:

• Itch relief - The ammonia in AfterBite disrupts signals to itch receptors, reducing uncomfortable itching sensations.
• Pain reduction - Benzalkonium chloride numbs nerve endings to alleviate pain and discomfort caused by venom and inflammation.
• Soothing - Baking soda balances skin pH to calm irritation and ground the affected area.
• Prevents infection - AfterBite's antiseptic properties prevent bacteria from entering wounds from scratching.

Together, these perks make AfterBite a popular option for finding quick relief after insect bites and stings of all kinds.

Effective Use of AfterBite

To get the most out of AfterBite when treating insect bites and stings:

• Clean the area with soap and water to remove dirt and debris.
• Apply a thin layer of AfterBite gel, cream or liquid to the affected area.
• Allow it to dry fully before washing off or reapplying.
• Reapply every few hours as needed for continued relief.
• Keep applying for up to a few days until discomfort fully subsides.

Avoid getting AfterBite in eyes, nostrils or open wounds. Seek medical attention for severe reactions like trouble breathing or if pain/swelling persists beyond a few days.

AfterBite Use for Specific Insects

AfterBite can provide relief from stings and bites of all types, including:

Bees and Wasps

Bee and wasp stings pierce skin and inject venom that causes instant pain, swelling and redness at the site. AfterBite counters the histamine response to reduce itching and soothes the irritated area. Its antiseptic properties also prevent infection in the wound.

Mosquitoes

Mosquito bites contain saliva that triggers immune responses like itching, swelling and fluid-filled bumps. AfterBite's active ingredients disrupt itching and diminish bumps and swelling resulting from mosquito bites.

Hornets, Yellowjackets and Fire Ants

The painful stings from these insects also benefit from AfterBite's soothing and antiseptic properties. Prompt application helps neutralize venom toxins and alleviate pain, itching, swelling and potential infections.

Spiders

Though not technically an insect, spider bites also cause redness, irritation, itching and swelling. AfterBite can be used to manage discomfort and itching associated with bites from spiders like black widows, brown recluses and others.

Bed Bugs

Bed bug bites usually occur at night and appear as raised, red itchy welts in zigzag lines or clusters. AfterBite helps control itching and swelling from bed bug bites.

AfterBite vs. Alternatives

While effective, AfterBite isn't the only option for treating insect bites and stings. Some alternatives and how they compare:

• Ice - Freezing helps reduce swelling but doesn't relieve itching or kill germs like AfterBite.
• Aloe vera - Soothes skin but not as potent for pain and itching reduction.
• Antihistamines - Relieve itching systemically but don't disinfect bites/stings.
• Heat - Helps ease pain but doesn't address itching, swelling or infection risk.

AfterBite is specially formulated with ammonia, baking soda and antiseptic ingredients to comprehensively address insect bite/sting discomfort and irritation.

Risks and Precautions for AfterBite

When used as directed, AfterBite is generally safe and effective. However, be aware of the following:

• Avoid contact with eyes, nose and open wounds.
• Discontinue use if irritation develops.
• Not for use on children under 3 years old.
• Don't exceed recommended dosages.
• See a doctor for severe reactions or persisting symptoms.

Pregnant/nursing women and those with skin conditions should consult their doctor before using.

The Takeaway

AfterBite is an over-the-counter topical treatment containing ammonia, baking soda and benzalkonium chloride. It works to relieve pain, itching, swelling and other discomforts resulting from insect bites and stings. When used as directed, AfterBite can provide safe, effective relief for the whole family.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.