This summertime habit makes you a mosquito magnet

My favorite time of year is in full swing—and I honestly can’t get enough of it.

Summer means longer days, sunnier skies, healthy socialization—and hopefully, some much-needed vacation time.

Of course, it also invites back a few pests—like those relentless mosquitoes.

If you’re someone who gets “eaten alive,” THIS summertime habit could be the reason why…

Scented soap is mosquito bait

New research shows that mosquitoes are surprisingly selective. In other words, they’re not just attracted to blood—they’re drawn in by smells.

Researchers recently analyzed different body odor profiles, including those altered by various soap scents.

After all, many popular soaps mimic floral or plant-based scents—smells mosquitoes naturally associate with nectar.

So, if you’re using that summertime scent in the shower? You’re basically lathering up with mosquito bait.

On the flip side, coconut-scented soaps appear to be the least attractive to mosquitoes. But I suppose that isn’t too surprising…

Coconut-based ingredients are anti-fungal, antibacterial, and anti-viral. Plus, other research suggests coconut-derived compounds may help repel a variety of blood-feeding insects.

And that leads me to my next point…

Smarter ways to keep mosquitoes at bay

Many people turn to DEET-based sprays to keep mosquitoes at bay. But DEET is a known neurotoxin—and I personally don’t feel comfortable putting it on my skin.

Another chemical option is picaridin, a synthetic compound modeled after a substance found in black pepper. It’s less greasy, less toxic, and widely used abroad—but as you know, I prefer (and endorse) a more natural approach.

Here are some safer, chemical-free tips to help deter the bugs this summer—and year-round:

• Skip scented personal care products. Fragrances attract bugs—and they’re full of chemicals anyway.
• Cleanse with oatmeal. Wrap raw oats in a cloth and gently scrub on skin.
• Wear light-colored clothing. This tip is especially useful at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.
• Use fans in outdoor spaces. Creating airflow helps keep insects at bay.
• Eliminate standing water around your yard. This will reduce breeding grounds.
• Use lemon verbena. You can rub this fragrant shrub on your skin—the citrusy scent acts as a natural repellent.
• Burn non-toxic citronella candles. Look for options made with unscented beeswax and essential oils. (But in my experience, you’ll need several burning at once for any real impact.)

These smart strategies can help you stay bite-free while enjoying all summertime has to offer.

Source:

“Are mosquitoes attracted to you? Try using a different kind of soap.” Medical News Today, 5/10/2023. (medicalnewstoday.com/articles/washing-with-different-soaps-could-make-you-more-or-less-attractive-to-mosquitoes)