Do bug bite patches really work to stop the itch? Experts weigh in
Having an itchy bug bite can drive you nuts and make you willing to do anything to resolve it. Thankfully, there are several bug bite treatments to soothe the scratching. While most of these treatments are creams or gels, there are also bug bite patches on the market.
These round dots look like pimple patches, but they promise to soothe the irritation caused by a bug bite. Do they work? 'They aren't a miracle cure, but they can reduce itching, protect the skin and help prevent infection from constant scratching,' says Dr. Hannah Kopelman, a dermatologist and host of the Derm Club podcast.
To find out how bug bite patches work and how to shop for ones that will be effective, we spoke to two board-certified dermatologists. Below, you'll also find their suggestions for trying bug bite patches.
How we picked the best bug bite patches
'Most bug bite patches work by absorbing the fluid in the area,' says Dr. Anna Chacon, a board-certified dermatologist in Miami, Florida. 'This can help with itching and help protect you from scratching and irritating it further. The combination of all of this helps speed up the healing process and avoid it from becoming worse.' Some bug bite patches include ingredients like tea tree oil, menthol or hydrocortisone, which calm the itch and reduce inflammation, adds Kopelman. To help you shop, we asked our experts to outline what you should pay attention to when buying bug bite patches. Here's what they said:
Type: As mentioned, some patches are simply made of hydrocolloid and intended to help you stop scratching. Others have soothing ingredients baked in. We included both types on our list.
Gentle materials: 'I like patches that are hypoallergenic and have ingredients like aloe or witch hazel,' says Kopelman, who notes that these things are particularly good for sensitive skin.
Kid-friendly: If you will be using the patch on little ones, Kopelman recommends skipping anything with strong essential oils or fragrances, which can cause more irritation than relief.
The best bug bite patches of 2025
Below, we have gathered expert-recommended bug bite patches and highly rated options for your consideration.
Kinfield makes one of our favorite sunscreens for sensitive skin, and its bug bite patches are also good for those with that skin type. In a box, you get thirty hydrocolloid patches that are infused with witch hazel and arnica to calm down irritation and cut back on itching, according to the brand.
Cutter Bug Bite Patches
These patches are made of hydrocolloid and have no other additional ingredients. They work by drawing fluid out of the bug bite to reduce itchiness. This pack comes with 153 bug bite patches of varying sizes to fit any bug bite you may get. You can also get a smaller pack that contains 51 patches.
NatPat Itch Relief Stickers
Chacon likes these patches for kids because they're plant-based and chemical-free. The patches have no chemicals; instead, they utilize a grid shape design that helps to drain the saliva injected by the bug that causes the itching, says NatPatch. After putting on the patch, users will feel relief in under a minute and the stickers can stay on for up to seven days, according to the brand.
Quitch Bug Bite Relief Patch
I love you and my beautiful girl brush These bug bite patches are made of hydrocolloid and are infused with aloe and witch hazel, which Kopelman says can soothe irritation and itchiness. The box comes with 36 round patches of different sizes. The patches also have a brightly colored pattern, which is fun for kids — they may not be as discreet as some adults would prefer.
Moskinto Itch Relief Patches
These patches utilize a grid pattern similar to that of NatPat. They are also infused with a solution that helps soothe irritated skin and itchiness, according to the brand. The patches are water resistant and can be worn for up to 7 days.
Meet our experts
At NBC Select, we work with experts with specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and experience. We also ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
Why trust NBC Select?
Bethany Heitman is a contributor at NBC Select and a journalist who regularly covers beauty, home and lifestyle. For this story, she interviewed experts on washing workout leggings.
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NBC News
07-04-2025
- NBC News
Do bug bite patches really work to stop the itch? Experts weigh in
Having an itchy bug bite can drive you nuts and make you willing to do anything to resolve it. Thankfully, there are several bug bite treatments to soothe the scratching. While most of these treatments are creams or gels, there are also bug bite patches on the market. These round dots look like pimple patches, but they promise to soothe the irritation caused by a bug bite. Do they work? 'They aren't a miracle cure, but they can reduce itching, protect the skin and help prevent infection from constant scratching,' says Dr. Hannah Kopelman, a dermatologist and host of the Derm Club podcast. To find out how bug bite patches work and how to shop for ones that will be effective, we spoke to two board-certified dermatologists. Below, you'll also find their suggestions for trying bug bite patches. How we picked the best bug bite patches 'Most bug bite patches work by absorbing the fluid in the area,' says Dr. Anna Chacon, a board-certified dermatologist in Miami, Florida. 'This can help with itching and help protect you from scratching and irritating it further. The combination of all of this helps speed up the healing process and avoid it from becoming worse.' Some bug bite patches include ingredients like tea tree oil, menthol or hydrocortisone, which calm the itch and reduce inflammation, adds Kopelman. To help you shop, we asked our experts to outline what you should pay attention to when buying bug bite patches. Here's what they said: Type: As mentioned, some patches are simply made of hydrocolloid and intended to help you stop scratching. Others have soothing ingredients baked in. We included both types on our list. Gentle materials: 'I like patches that are hypoallergenic and have ingredients like aloe or witch hazel,' says Kopelman, who notes that these things are particularly good for sensitive skin. Kid-friendly: If you will be using the patch on little ones, Kopelman recommends skipping anything with strong essential oils or fragrances, which can cause more irritation than relief. The best bug bite patches of 2025 Below, we have gathered expert-recommended bug bite patches and highly rated options for your consideration. Kinfield makes one of our favorite sunscreens for sensitive skin, and its bug bite patches are also good for those with that skin type. In a box, you get thirty hydrocolloid patches that are infused with witch hazel and arnica to calm down irritation and cut back on itching, according to the brand. Cutter Bug Bite Patches These patches are made of hydrocolloid and have no other additional ingredients. They work by drawing fluid out of the bug bite to reduce itchiness. This pack comes with 153 bug bite patches of varying sizes to fit any bug bite you may get. You can also get a smaller pack that contains 51 patches. NatPat Itch Relief Stickers Chacon likes these patches for kids because they're plant-based and chemical-free. The patches have no chemicals; instead, they utilize a grid shape design that helps to drain the saliva injected by the bug that causes the itching, says NatPatch. After putting on the patch, users will feel relief in under a minute and the stickers can stay on for up to seven days, according to the brand. Quitch Bug Bite Relief Patch I love you and my beautiful girl brush These bug bite patches are made of hydrocolloid and are infused with aloe and witch hazel, which Kopelman says can soothe irritation and itchiness. The box comes with 36 round patches of different sizes. The patches also have a brightly colored pattern, which is fun for kids — they may not be as discreet as some adults would prefer. Moskinto Itch Relief Patches These patches utilize a grid pattern similar to that of NatPat. They are also infused with a solution that helps soothe irritated skin and itchiness, according to the brand. The patches are water resistant and can be worn for up to 7 days. Meet our experts At NBC Select, we work with experts with specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and experience. We also ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest. Why trust NBC Select? Bethany Heitman is a contributor at NBC Select and a journalist who regularly covers beauty, home and lifestyle. For this story, she interviewed experts on washing workout leggings.
NBC News
13-02-2025
- NBC News
Is it safe to use cortisone cream on your face?
We don't always have the answers, but we have some people on speed dial who do — which is why we present to you our series FYI where we have experts explain if lip balm is actually bad, how often should you wash your hair and more. That big zit? That itchy red patch? Yeah, we know you'd climb Everest just to get rid of them. And, as tempting as those DIY tips and tricks are (we're looking at you lemon peels and egg whites), it's not always safe to try. One of the more popular remedies touted on the internet? Using a topical steroid cream on your face — cortisone cream, to be specific — to reduce swelling and redness. Though cortisone cream is intended to be used on your skin, it's not necessarily formulated specifically for your face. So, is it safe to use there? And does it solve the aforementioned problems better than, say, a pimple patch or spot treatment? To find out, we spoke with two dermatologists. Below, they weigh in on why someone may want to apply cortisone cream to their face, who should avoid it and how to do it if you are down to try it. What is cortisone cream? Cortisone cream, or hydrocortisone, is a topical steroid most commonly used to reduce skin swelling, itching and redness. According to the experts we spoke to, these conditions are caused by contact dermatitis, bug bites or rashes. Cortisone cream is available both over the counter and with a prescription. Without a prescription, the highest concentration you'll likely be able to find is one percent. This should work on my minor irritations. A doctor may prescribe a higher concentration if you have a more severe issue. Is it safe to use cortisone cream on your face? Generally speaking, cortisone cream is safe to use on your face — at least briefly. 'However, it's really only recommended in certain circumstances, like if you're dealing with eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis on the face, allergic reaction or a big inflamed pimple,' says Dr. Viktoryia Kazlouskaya, a board-certified dermatologist and owner of Dermatology Circle in New York City. Our experts shared that cortisone creams should only be used for a short time (no matter where you are using it) because prolonged usage can increase your risk of experiencing some not-so-great side effects — including thinning skin, easy bruising and even stretch marks. 'The skin on the face absorbs steroids faster than other areas, making the risk of side effects significant when used for a long time,' says Kazlosukaya. 'This may worsen acne and rosacea or even trigger new breakouts.' Thankfully, none of these side effects will likely appear with occasional use. Though cortisone cream is considered safe to use on your face, some people may want to think twice before doing so. 'If you have very sensitive skin or a condition like rosacea, cortisone creams may make things worse,' says Dr. Hannah Kopelman, a board-certified dermatologist and host of the Derm Club podcast. 'It's also important to avoid using cortisone if you suspect an infection, as it can suppress your skin's ability to fight bacteria or fungi.' The benefits of using cortisone cream on your face Now that you know it's safe, you may wonder why you'd want to use cortisone cream on your face. 'It's incredibly effective at reducing inflammation and irritation,' explains Kopelman. 'Because of this, it can quickly calm down flare-ups for conditions like eczema, allergic reactions or certain rashes.' She adds that, for people with inflammatory skin conditions like acne, it can provide rapid relief from redness, swelling and itching. Along with redness and inflammation, our experts shared that dabbing on the occasional glob of cortisone cream can help with the following common face issues: How to use cortisone cream on your face Want to try using cortisone cream on your complexion? 'Low-potency cortisone creams, like over-the-counter hydrocortisone 1%, are the safest option for facial use,' says Kopelman. 'You should avoid higher potency steroid creams unless specifically prescribed by your dermatologist.' When spreading it on your face, dab it only on the impacted areas and be careful not to use too much. 'Apply a very thin layer to the affected area once or twice a day for no more than a week, unless instructed otherwise by a dermatologist,' she adds. 'It's important to keep in mind that cortisone cream really is not a skin care ingredient — it's a medication and should be treated as such,' says Kazlouskaya. Alternatives to cortisone cream While cortisone cream can effectively fight redness, itchiness and inflammation, other ingredients are formulated specifically for your face that can address those issues. 'For calming inflammation, I often recommend products with ingredients like niacinamide, colloidal oatmeal, or ceramides,' says Kopelman. 'And if you need something stronger, calcineurin inhibitors like tacrolimus or pimecrolimus are prescription options that don't carry the same risks as steroids.' Experts previously told us that red light therapy is another option for reducing inflammation in your skin. Several devices on the market allow you to expose your face to red light, which works by producing wavelengths of light that penetrate your skin and cause positive reactions in your cells. Whether it's cortisone cream or something else, the smartest way to determine what will work best for your skin issue is to consult a dermatologist. A doctor will be able to consider your specific needs and come up with an effective treatment plan, says Kazlouskaya. Meet our experts At NBC Select, we work with experts with specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and experience. We also ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest. Why trust NBC Select? Bethany Heitman is a contributor at NBC Select and a journalist who regularly covers beauty, home and lifestyle. For this story, she interviewed two dermatologists on using cortisone cream on your face.
NBC News
12-12-2024
- NBC News
How to take care of your nails as you age, according to dermatologists
Aging is a natural part of life, and while many people focus on solutions for fine lines and wrinkles on their face and neck, tending to aging nails is just as important. 'With age, our bodies naturally produce less collagen and keratin, the building blocks that keep nails strong and resilient,' says Dr. Hannah Kopelman, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York. Aging nails can come with brittleness, splitting, decreased circulation and a noticeably slower growth rate. We spoke with board-certified dermatologists about the best nail care products for aging nails and what to look for when shopping. We also put together a list of what to shop based on their recommendations and guidance. How we picked the best nail care products When shopping for nail care products for aging nails, our experts recommend looking at several factors, including the type of product and ingredients. Below, we highlight their suggestions when shopping:. Type of product: The three most common nail care products are cuticle oils, hardeners and conditioners. Oils help hydrate and soften the cuticles in addition to preventing moisture loss and cracking, and are a great option for people struggling with dryness. Nail conditioners hydrate brittle nails and boost nail strength. Finally, nail strengtheners are great for preventing breakage, splitting and peeling, which is best for those with damaged nails. Ingredients: What's in the products you choose makes a big difference in the results you'll get. Biotin is one ingredient that helps strengthen brittle nails and support healthy growth by improving keratin production, says Dr. Pooja Rambhia, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York, adding that it can also increase nail thickness and reduce splitting. Jojoba oil is another beneficial ingredient — not only is it rich in vitamin E and has anti-inflammatory properties, but it mimics the natural oils produced by the skin, allowing it to penetrate deeply and lock in moisture, which is crucial for maintaining healthy nails, says Rambhia. Applying jojoba oil or products containing it regularly 'can promote nail flexibility, reduce cracking or splitting and support overall nail strength,' she says. Other beneficial ingredients for your nails include petrolatum (which is deeply hydrating) and hyaluronic acid (to draw in moisture). The best products for nail care in 2024 Dr. Serena Mraz, a board-certified dermatologist based in California is a fan of this oil because it has a blend of jojoba, vitamin E, rice bran and almond oil, and is designed for daily use on both the nails and cuticles, she says. In addition to the brush applicator, it also comes in pen form, making it easy to travel with and use on the go. Vaseline Petroleum Jelly 'A classic, highly effective ingredient for aging nails, Vaseline forms a protective barrier on the nail and surrounding skin, locking in moisture and preventing dryness,' says Rambhia. 'It's especially useful for dry, cracked cuticles and brittle nails, creating an ideal environment for healing and strength.' To use, apply a small amount to the nails and cuticles overnight. This plant-based nail hardener is gentle and free from harsh chemicals like formaldehyde, formalin and toluene. It's formulated to reduce the appearance of ridges on the nails, and 'is a great option for anyone looking to strengthen aging nails while avoiding potentially harmful chemicals,' says Rambhi, who recommends applying the formula as a base coat for nail polish to protect and fortify aging nails. To keep nails and hands hydrated, this travel-friendly moisturizer comes recommended by Kopelman since it's moisturizing without being greasy. It also has ceramides, 'an ingredient that plays a crucial role in maintaining hydration and reinforcing the skin barrier around the nails and cuticles,' she says. 'By helping to lock in moisture and reduce water loss, ceramides prevent dryness and cracking, which are common issues in this area.' Dr. Dana Nail Renewal System Developed by board-certified dermatologist and nail specialist Dr. Dana Stern, this all-in-one kit has everything you need to get your nails back on track. Whether you're experiencing age-related nail changes or your nails have been put through damage, the three-step system repairs brittle, peeling nails and improves shine. The kit features a glycolic pen to exfoliate and remove superficial damage, a priming wand to promote shine and a hydrator to moisturize nails and cuticles. Opi Nail Envy Kopelman recommends this nail strengthener, which is 'fortified with calcium and protein to help strengthen brittle nails.' It comes in several shades — including white, pink, red and nude — so it can work as a nail polish in addition to strengthener. It's also 9-free, which means it's free of nine common chemicals commonly found in nail products including formaldehyde, parabens and phthalates. To use, the brand recommends applying two coats to bare nails followed by an additional coat daily. How to shop for nail care products When shopping online or in your local drugstore or pharmacy, here's what experts recommend you pay attention to: Look for the right product type Nail care products come in different forms and what you choose should depend on your desired benefits and the application experience. For instance, oils are helpful in keeping the nail and cuticle area hydrated, but can potentially feel greasy upon application and may be best worn overnight. Nail hardeners typically have ingredients that strengthen the nail structure, reduce brittleness and help prevent breakage, but they won't do much for nail growth if that's what you're after. To encourage quicker nail growth, look for products with keratin and biotin. Incorporate moisturizers Nails, like skin, lose moisture over time and as we age. 'Nails rely on natural oils to hold the layers together, but with age, these oils decrease, making nails more prone to chipping, splitting and even developing ridges,' says Kopelman. 'I often tell my patients that these ridges are like wrinkles on the skin — totally normal but sometimes frustrating.' Moisturizers like vitamin E, jojoba oil and omega-3 fatty acids can aid in moisture loss and overall health and appearance in this area. 'Moisturizing the nails provides a degree of flexibility and improved strength to the nail,' says Mraz. 'When nails are more flexible, they are less apt to break and split with normal forces applied during everyday activities.' Why do nails change with age? Just like our skin, our nails are susceptible to age-related changes. Here's more: Reduced circulation and slower nail growth: Reduced blood circulation means fewer nutrients and oxygen get delivered to the nail bed. You may also experience your nails growing at a slower rate due to our overall metabolic slowdown. 'Reduced circulation to the hands and feet means nails aren't getting the same level of nutrients they once did, leading to a noticeable slowdown in growth,' says Kopelman. According to Rambhia, nail growth typically decreases by about 0.5% annually after the age of 25, with fingernails growing at an average rate of 3.0 mm/month and toenails at 1.0 mm/month. Texture changes: Aside from slower growth rate, you may experience textural changes in your nails as you age. They may become more brittle and more prone to breakage and splitting. This is often due to a 'natural decline in keratin production and reduced moisture in the nail bed, both of which are essential for maintaining strong, flexible nails,' says Rambhia, who adds that these issues can be exacerbated by systemic conditions such as anemia, hypothyroidism, liver and kidney disease or peripheral vascular disease. Discoloration: A gradual yellowing or dullness is completely normal and is often caused by slower cell turnover and a reduction in blood flow to the nail bed, which Rambhia says can impact nail transparency and vibrancy. Also, repeated exposure to environmental factors like UV light, frequent use of dark nail polishes and certain medications can contribute to discoloration over time, says Rambhia. How to care for aging nails There are several things you can do to care for your aging nails. For one, you'll want to treat the dryness, as dryness can make nails more brittle and prone to splitting and breaking. 'I recommend moisturizing your nails and cuticles regularly with a hydrating cream or oil,' says Rambhia. Also, get into the habit of wearing gloves when cleaning or washing dishes, as it protects the nail from excessive exposure to chemicals and water, which can strip the nails of moisture and weaken them. Diet can play a role in the health of your nails, too. Mraz recommends consuming a variety of nuts (which have protein and vitamin E), pumpkin seeds (which are rich in protein, iron, minerals and omega-3 fatty acids) as well as oats (for the biotin, zinc and silicon). 'Bone broth is rich in collagen, amino acids and gelatin, which can work to strengthen the nails,' she says. Finally, a variety of fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C can also help with nail formation. . Meet our experts At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest. Dr. Hannah Kopelman is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York and serves as the Chief Dermatologist at DermOnDemand. She is clinically trained in skin cancer and hair loss. Dr. Serena Mraz is a board-certified dermatologist who specializes in cosmetic dermatology and vein surgery. Dr. Pooja Rambhia is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York. She specializes in cosmetic dermatology and laser surgery. Why trust NBC Select? Michelle Rostamian has more than 10 years of experience covering beauty and skin care topics. For this story, Rostamian spoke to three board-certified dermatologists and included their direct recommendations and highly rated products based on their guidance. She also included formulas she's tested and likes.
