We Gave This Bite-Relief Tool A Try — Here's How It Worked

CTV News

25-06-2025

Stay prepared this summer with this suction tool.
Let's be honest—no one likes bug bites! But they're almost impossible to avoid, especially if you're one of those people mosquitoes seem to love a little too much. If that sounds like you, or if you always end up being the one who gets stung by a bee, this little tool might just save the day.
The Bug Bite Thing is a small, portable device that claims to remove venom, saliva, and other irritants left under the skin by insects. This handy gadget has been all over the internet lately, so we decided to test it out and see if it really works.
This text is a translation from Noovo Moi
Valérie Sardin
How does it work?
The process is pretty simple—The Bug Bite Thing uses suction to draw out venom and saliva from just under the skin at the site of a bug bite or sting. According to the instructions on the packaging, the best way to use it is to place the tip of the tool directly over the bite or sting. Then, gently pull up on the handles until you start to feel some suction. Hold it there for 10 to 20 seconds, then slowly release the handles.
Valérie Sardin Valérie Sardin You should feel a noticeable suction, but stop before it becomes uncomfortable or painful. Then, press down on the handles to release the suction and repeat the process two to three times. When used properly, you should notice a reduction in pain and irritation within a few minutes.
Valérie Sardin
What kinds of bites does it work on?
Since this tool uses suction to pull out saliva and venom, it works on all kinds of biting insects: mosquitoes, bees, wasps, ants—you name it. You won't actually see the venom being sucked out because the particles are just too tiny.
They also say it can be used to remove bee stingers or even splinters under the skin. The suggestion is to first use the regular tip to bring the splinter closer to the skin's surface, then use the opposite side—which acts like a scraper—to pull it out. Oh, and they strongly recommend washing the tool after every use to avoid contaminating any future bites.
Amazon
Can you use it on kids?
I'll be honest—the suction is pretty strong, even though it's said to be painless. I actually worried it might leave a mark for a few days, kind of like a hickey! But the good news is, you can control the suction by covering more or less of the area you're treating.
With kids, you should use less suction and keep it on for a shorter time. That said, the tool can be used at any age, even on babies. Plus, since it helps reduce the urge to scratch, it lowers the risk of infection, which is great for little ones who often have dirty nails.
Amazon
Does it really work?
After a few uses, my kids and I definitely noticed a reduction in the bites we treated. That said, you really need to repeat the process two to three times to get results.
The only downside is that sometimes the suction can leave a mark on the skin for a few hours or even a day. Maybe it's just about adjusting the suction strength properly? Only using it more over time will tell. Also, some people seem more prone to marks than others. But yes, the tool really does work on bites.
Here are some tips from the manufacturer:
Use the device as soon as you notice a bite—the sooner, the better it works.
Keep several Bug Bite Things handy in different spots (garage, car, purse, etc.).
Make the most of it by using the handles as a scraper to remove bee stingers or splinters.
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