Top five ways to prevent mosquito bites this summer
Ahh, summer. The days are longer, the temperatures are rising, and the mosquitoes are back in full force. As much as we dislike them, there’s not much we can do to completely avoid insects aside from staying indoors all season long.
Instead of denying yourself fun in the sun, there are some helpful tips and tricks you can use to lower your risk of being bitten by mosquitoes and make sure that you actually enjoy your time outdoors. Here are five of the best ones out there for staying bite-free this season.
Tip no. 1: Cover up
Although long sleeves and pants may not seem ideal for hot summer days, it’s one of the easiest ways to keep the bugs away. Look for lightweight fabrics that can be tucked in to provide extra coverage and keep mosquitoes and ticks from biting.
Tip no. 2: Avoid alcohol
Studies have shown that even with the alcoholic equivalent of a single beer, humans are more likely to attract mosquitoes. Whether it’s due to a change in our scent or the effect of alcohol’s fermentation remains unclear, but you’re better off sticking to water if you want to fend off bug bites.
Tip no. 3: Take it easy
Periods of high physical activity release carbon dioxide from our bodies, which attracts mosquitoes. Your body temperature also increases the more you move, and with more blood flow directed to the surface of your skin, it’s even easier for bugs to spot you while you’re moving around. Stay away from excess motion in times of peak mosquito activity and your skin will thank you.
Tip no. 4: Wear light colours
Mosquitoes detect their prey by flying towards silhouettes near the ground, and their eyesight relies heavily on detecting shadows. Since dark-coloured clothing is easier for them to see, ditch the black T-shirts for a white or other light-coloured option.
Tip no. 5: Use repellent
Of course, the best way to stay bite-free is to take preventative measures like using insect repellent sprays and creams. DEET-based products are generally considered the most effective on the market, but with growing concerns over potential negative health impacts, newer products using naturally insect-repellent ingredients like eucalyptus and lemon essential oils have gained in popularity.
Get ready for the season with our top picks for keeping the bugs away and shop the best bug repellents below.
Ben's 30% DEET Mosquito, Tick and Insect Repellent
SHOP IT: Sport Chek, $6
Natrapel 75ml Lemon Eucalyptus Mosquito Repellent Spray
SHOP IT: Atmosphere, $9
SEALEN Mosquito Repellent Patches
SHOP IT: Amazon, $14
Mosquito Shield Piactive Insect Repellent
SHOP IT: MEC, $15
Muskol Lotion
SHOP IT: Amazon, $8
Druide Citronella Insect Repellent Spray
SHOP IT: Well.ca, $15
OFF! Deep Woods Insect Repellent
SHOP IT: Amazon, $7
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