Mosquitoes are a part of our natural environment, but no one wants mosquito bites to ruin an enjoyable hike. The Great Outdoors Or you can enjoy an evening bonfire on the beach.
Whether you use traditional bug sprays or consider natural alternatives, there are some proven ways to keep mosquitoes away from you and your family. To avoid the constant itching of mosquito bites, Dr. Gelman TragerHere, D.O., a board-certified dermatologist and founder of St. Claire Dermatology in Chesterfield, Michigan, explains everything you need to know to avoid mosquito bites this season. summer.
How to keep mosquitoes away
To find a topical bug spray that actually works, here are some active ingredients to look for: [are] DEET and Picaridin” do not kill mosquitoes, DEET According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, masking natural odors can repel mosquitoes.
DEET, Picaridin, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus, Paramenthanediol (PMD), and 2-Undecanone are all EPA registered ingredients with proven safety. Safe and Effective When using it as an insect repellent, Treyger stresses that it’s always important to follow the product instructions to ensure responsible use, especially when using it on small children, according to the CDC.
Permethrin Permethrin is also an insecticide that can be treated to clothing and equipment to repel mosquitoes when sprayed at a 0.5% concentration, but the CDC says permethrin products should not be applied directly to the skin.
Treyger lists some additional steps you can take to repel mosquitoes:
- Check your surroundings and remove any standing water where mosquitoes can lay their eggs.
- Wear long sleeves and socks when entering areas with a lot of mosquitoes
- Reconsider wearing tight-fitting clothing such as leggings, as mosquitoes can penetrate the fabric.
- Keep doors and windows closed indoors
What is the most effective natural mosquito repellent?
“Lemon eucalyptus oil is the best natural mosquito repellent,” says Treiger. Lemon Eucalyptus Oil A 2016 review determined it offered similar protection against mosquitoes compared to DEET.
However, “from a dermatologist’s perspective, the reason I always hesitate with all-natural treatments is because they’re not monitored by a doctor. FDA [or] “The EPA has warned that natural insect repellents may contain preservatives that can cause skin irritation, rashes, and other unforeseen problems,” Treiger said.
What smells do mosquitoes hate?
It is well known that mosquitoes are attracted to smells. Carbon dioxide and skin odorSo, using natural scents to repel pests may be an option.
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In addition to lemon eucalyptus oil, other Natural Flavors According to Healthline, mosquito-repelling air fresheners include citronella, lavender, cinnamon oil, thyme oil, Greek catmint oil, soybean oil, tea tree oil, geraniol, and neem oil. The idea behind it is that the scent of the air freshener “can mask your natural human odor and repel mosquitoes,” Treiger says.
But how effective are these ingredients in protecting you and your family? “I think they may provide some protection, but I’m not sure they provide enough protection,” he says. Ultimately, Treyger reiterates that your best bet for preventing mosquito bites is to choose a product that contains DEET or picaridin.
