Sand fleas are small and annoying crustaceans that live on most beaches. When biting, these animals will leave saliva which causes itching and skin irritation. In certain cases, sand fleas can even get into the layers of the skin and lay their eggs there. As a result, infection and skin irritation will get worse. To treat sand flea bites, you can try soothing the irritation on the skin. However, if the symptoms get worse, seek medical attention. You can also prevent sand flea bites by visiting the beach at the right time and protecting exposed skin.
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Method 1 of 3: Soothe Sand Flea Bites
Step 1. Don't scratch
Many people want to scratch a sand flea bite immediately because of the irritation and itching it causes. However, try not to scratch the sand flea bite as this will only open the wound, making you more susceptible to infection.
Step 2. Apply calamine lotion
One way to relieve itching and irritation of the skin due to sand flea bites is to apply calamine lotion to the area. These lotions are available at local pharmacies and can soothe the skin thereby relieving itchiness.
- Before applying calamine lotion, read all the instructions for use on the package and then apply a small amount to the bite area. Do not use this lotion on the eyes, mouth, or genitals.
- Discuss the use of calamine lotion for children younger than 6 months first with the doctor. You should also consult with your doctor before using this lotion during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Step 3. Try using a hydrocortisone cream
You can also relieve itching by applying hydrocortisone cream to the bite area. Using this cream will help prevent you from scratching the sand flea bite. You can buy this cream at the local pharmacy.
- Before applying the cream, read all the instructions for use listed. After that, gently rub the cream onto the irritated area. Wash your hands when you're done.
- If you are pregnant or taking any other medications, consult your doctor first before using hydrocortisone cream.
- Consult the use of this cream for children aged less than 10 years first with a doctor.
Step 4. Make a solution of baking soda and water
A solution of baking soda in water can help soothe itchy and irritated skin. To soothe sand flea bites with a baking soda solution:
- Pour 1 cup of baking soda into a tub of cold water. After that, soak in the bath for about 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Or, mix 3 parts baking soda with 1 part water. Stir until it forms a paste. After that, apply the paste to the irritated skin. Leave it for about 30 minutes, then rinse off the paste with water.
Step 5. Soak in the oatmeal solution
You can also relieve irritation and itching of the skin by soaking in an oatmeal solution. Oatmeal contains antioxidants that soothe the skin. To make this solution, you just need to pour 1 or 2 cups of oatmeall flour into a tub of warm water. After that, soak in it for about 1 hour.
Do not use hot water as it can aggravate skin irritation
Step 6. Use aloe vera
Aloe vera is very effective at soothing and healing a number of skin irritations. You can buy aloe vera gel at your local pharmacy. Just rub aloe vera on the irritated area. The aloe vera will help soothe the skin, making you feel more comfortable.
Step 7. Use essential oils
Certain essential oils such as lavender oil, tea tree oil, eucalyptus oil, and cypress oil can help reduce skin irritation from sand flea bites. To use it, simply apply this oil directly on the irritated skin. Follow the directions for use listed on the essential oil packaging to determine the correct dosage.
- Always consult the use of essential oils for medical purposes with your doctor, especially if you are pregnant.
- If you suffer from allergies or are sensitive to something, try applying the essential oil on a small area of healthy skin first.
- To prevent skin irritation, most essential oils should be mixed with a carrier oil before use. Avoid using concentrated essential oils directly on the skin unless recommended by a professional.
Method 2 of 3: Seeking Medical Help
Step 1. Check for fleas at the bite area
In most cases, a sand flea bite will only cause a small red bump, much like a mosquito bite. However, in certain cases, the female lice will enter the skin layer and lay eggs there, causing severe irritation and infection. This bite will appear as a swollen area with a black spot in the center.
If you suspect sand fleas are lodged in your skin, see your doctor for treatment
Step 2. Visit a doctor
Using a hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion should help relieve symptoms of skin irritation. However, if not, or your symptoms are getting worse, you should immediately visit a doctor. This may indicate that the bite wound has become infected or that you are allergic to flea saliva.
Step 3. Use an antihistamine cream
Your doctor may recommend that you use a prescription antihistamine cream to treat sand flea bites. This cream will help reduce irritation from an allergic reaction to a tick bite. Follow the advice given by the doctor.
Method 3 of 3: Preventing Sand Flea Bites
Step 1. Avoid visiting the beach at dawn and dusk
Sand fleas are most active at dawn and dusk when temperatures are cooler. To prevent sand flea bites, visit the beach in the middle of the day. You may still get bitten, but there probably won't be too many of them.
You should also not visit the beach when it is raining. Sand fleas are most active in cool, humid weather
Step 2. Try using insect repellent
Insect repellents can help you prevent sand flea bites. Before visiting the beach, spray this product on the soles of the feet, ankles, and legs. Follow the directions for use and look for products that specifically list sand fleas.
You may also need to take this product to the beach so you can reuse it after swimming
Step 3. Protect the leg, sole and ankle area
A great way to prevent sand flea bites is to protect your legs, soles, and ankles. Sand fleas can only jump as high as 20-40 cm so it is unlikely that this parasite can reach the area above the waist. Wear sandals or shorts during a beach walk. Meanwhile, while lying on the sand, make sure to use a towel or blanket as a base.
