If you’ve ever called yourself a mosquito magnet, you may be on to something. There are things that can make you more attractive to mosquitoes than other people. While some of these factors you can control, other things depend on your DNA. Check out a few reasons why mosquitoes keep bugging you.
Carbon Dioxide
Every time you exhale, carbon dioxide is released. This can be problematic since mosquitoes can detect carbon dioxide. Your chances of running into a mosquito increase if you happen to release more carbon dioxide. Exercising and being pregnant can increase your carbon dioxide levels.
Sweat
On hot summer days, it can be difficult to prevent sweating. Unfortunately, this makes it easier for mosquitoes to find you. Sweat contains lactic acid, which is something that mosquitoes can detect. The more you sweat, the more likely it is that a mosquito will track you down.
Body Odor
Mosquitoes rely on their sense of smell to lead them to a food source. They can quickly pick up on body odor. Practicing proper hygiene can help prevent mosquito bites. You may also want to avoid wearing shoes that have built up an odor.
Dark Colors
Mosquitoes also use their sense of sight to help them locate a host. Wearing dark colors can make it easier for them to find you. Dark clothing also will absorb light and retain heat, which can cause an increase in body temperature as well as induce sweating.
Strong Fragrances
You may think that applying perfumes and colognes can help mask your scent. Think again. Strong fragrances are likely to attract mosquitoes. Floral scents are especially attractive since mosquitoes—when not biting you—feed on nectar. It’s best to use unscented products to help keep these pests away.
Blood Type
You probably have a favorite food and mosquitoes feel the same way. While these pests will take advantage of any meal they can find, they do have preferences. Some mosquitoes are known to prefer Type O blood over A or B.
How to Prevent Mosquito Bites
Some of these factors you can’t control, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take action. Check out a few things you can do to prevent mosquito bites.
- Apply a Natural Bug Spray: Our Natural Insect Repellent will help keep mosquitoes, ticks, and flies from bothering you. We recommend applying every two hours or as needed for best results.
- Wear Light Colors: Avoid wearing dark colors, especially black, when spending time outside.
- Wear Long Sleeves & Pants: When possible, wear pants and shirts with long sleeves to make it harder for mosquitoes to bite you.
- Choose Loose-Fitting Clothes: It’s easier for mosquitoes to bite through tight-fitting clothes.
- Use an Outdoor Fan: Mosquitoes struggle to fly in windy situations, so turning on a fan can make it harder for them to reach you.
- Avoid Peak Mosquito Hours: Mosquitoes are most active during dawn and dusk, so if possible avoid going outside during these times.
- Choose Unscented Hygiene Products: Avoid wearing strong perfumes and colognes, and opt for unscented soaps and body wash.
- Mosquito-Proof Your Yard: Keep your yard free of standing water and debris. Treating your yard with a plant-based insecticide spray, like our Mosquito & Tick Killer, can help kill and repel these pests.