After Bite is an over-the-counter topical treatment that alleviates discomfort from insect bites and stings. It provides prompt relief from the itching, pain, and irritation commonly experienced after insect encounters. The product soothes the skin and reduces the body’s reaction to insect saliva or venom.
Key Active Ingredients
Historically, After Bite formulas contained ammonium hydroxide (ammonia) as a primary component. Many current After Bite formulations, including “Original” and “Advanced” versions, list sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) as the active ingredient at a 5% concentration. Ammonia is often present in these formulations as an inactive ingredient.
Other After Bite products incorporate additional soothing ingredients. After Bite Kids, for example, features sodium bicarbonate as its active ingredient, alongside inactive components like aloe vera, tea tree oil, and eucalyptus oil. Tea tree oil has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic qualities. Aloe vera provides a cooling sensation, reduces inflammation, and moisturizes the skin. Eucalyptus oil also offers cooling and soothing benefits.
How After Bite Works
After Bite works by targeting substances insects inject into the skin that trigger the body’s immune response, causing itching and swelling. Many insect venoms or saliva, such as those from mosquitoes, bees, and wasps, contain acidic compounds. Ammonia, present in some After Bite formulations, is an alkaline substance that neutralizes these acidic irritants. This neutralization helps to reduce itching, burning, and pain.
Sodium bicarbonate, a common active ingredient, also functions as an alkaline agent that neutralizes acids. When applied, it helps to balance the pH at the site of irritation, which contributes to alleviating discomfort. Other ingredients like tea tree oil and aloe vera offer relief through different mechanisms. Tea tree oil possesses anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce swelling and prevent infection if the skin is broken from scratching.
Aloe vera provides a cooling and moisturizing effect, which helps to soothe irritated skin and reduce the sensation of itchiness. Its anti-inflammatory compounds also contribute to calming the skin’s reaction. The combined action of these ingredients addresses both chemical irritants and the inflammatory response.
Different After Bite Formulations
After Bite is available in several formulations. After Bite Original, while historically associated with ammonia, often lists sodium bicarbonate as the active ingredient, with ammonia as an inactive component. This formulation is designed for general use by adults and children over two years of age.
After Bite Kids is specifically formulated for children and individuals with sensitive skin. This version typically omits ammonia, relying on gentler ingredients such as sodium bicarbonate, aloe vera, and tea tree oil for relief. The absence of ammonia makes it a non-stinging option. After Bite Advanced is another variant, featuring sodium bicarbonate as its active ingredient, along with ammonia as an inactive ingredient. Checking the specific product label is important to understand its exact ingredients and suitability for individual use.
Safety and Usage Considerations
Apply After Bite by dabbing or rubbing it gently onto the affected skin area. It is recommended to apply it as soon as possible after an insect bite or sting for best results. After Bite products are for external use only and should not be ingested.
Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, or broken skin, as this can cause irritation. If accidental contact occurs, flush the area with water. Mild side effects such as temporary stinging or redness at the application site can occur. If skin irritation persists, worsens, or if symptoms do not improve after a few days, discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider.
Seek medical attention for severe reactions or concerning symptoms. Call for emergency help if symptoms of a severe allergic reaction occur, such as:
Trouble breathing
Swelling of the lips, face, eyelids, or throat
Dizziness or fainting
Hives
Rapid pulse
Medical consultation is also recommended for signs of infection, including spreading redness, warmth, pus, fever, or chills. If a bite appears to be getting worse, is unusually painful, or does not improve within a few days, professional medical advice should be sought.