How Does Mosquito Repellent Work?
Mosquitoes are pesky creatures and common summer pests that can cause a lot of discomforts. In addition to making you itch, they can also spread diseases like Zika, Malaria, and Dengue fever. Many people use mosquito repellent to keep them away. But how does it work? And is it safe? In this blog post, we’ll answer those questions and more. We’ll also take a look at some natural mosquito repellent options.
How Does Mosquito Repellent Work?
Mosquitoes are attracted to human blood because of the protein in our bodily fluids. In addition, they can detect carbon dioxide and ‘smell’ our skin when searching for another meal. Mosquitoes use receptors to detect their human target’s body heat and carbon dioxide. Mosquito repellent works by confusing and interfering with the receptors on their antennae, which deters them from landing on the skin or biting.
Different types of Mosquito Repellent; and How to Choose the Right One for You
There are two main types of mosquito repellent: natural and chemical. Natural mosquito repellents usually contain plant-based oils that are effective at deterring mosquitoes. Chemical mosquito repellents typically contain synthetic compounds like DEET or picaridin, which are also effective but can come with some risks.
DEET (chemical name: N, N-diethyl-meta-toluamide) is the most common active ingredient in mosquito and insect repellents. DEET is a very effective insect repellent, but it’s not always safe. It only works for a few hours once you apply the lotion, and then its effectiveness decreases greatly because of this short lifespan in high concentration.
Some of the natural mosquito repellent options include:
Lemon eucalyptus oil is an effective mosquito repellent. The oil comes from the lemon eucalyptus tree and has a strong citrusy scent. When applied to the skin, it creates a barrier that repels mosquitoes. Lemon eucalyptus oil is safe for humans and animals and can be used on adults and children. It is important to reapply the oil every few hours, especially if sweating.
Citronella oil is derived from the citronella plant and has been used as a mosquito repellent for centuries. Citronella candles and lanterns are a popular way to use citronella oil, but the oil can also be added to lotions and sprays. When used properly, citronella oil is an effective way to keep mosquitoes at bay.
Lavender oil has a calming scent that is also effective at repelling mosquitoes. The oil can be added to lotions and sprays or used in diffusers and candles. Lavender is an excellent insect repellent that keeps you and your family safe from mosquitos, particularly important if you have small children. The oil contains up to 25% linalool which works like DEET in keeping them away!
When choosing a mosquito repellent, you’ll want to consider how long it lasts, how often you need to reapply it, and if there are any health risks associated with the active ingredients. However, the most important thing to remember is that repellents are only as good as they can reach. If you don’t apply it properly or cover all of your skin, you won’t be completely protected. The mosquitoes are skilled at finding the smallest chinks in your repellent armor.
Other Alternatives to Repel Mosquito
There are other things you can do in addition to using mosquito repellent.
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants: As being said, mosquitoes are attracted to the carbon dioxide we exhale and the heat from our bodies. Wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants will help to keep them away from your skin.
- Use a fan: Mosquitoes are weak flyers and have trouble flying in windy conditions. Using a fan will help to keep them away from you.
- Stay indoors at dawn and dusk: Dawn and dusk are when mosquitoes are most active. So, if you can, stay indoors during these times.
- Use mosquito netting: Mosquito is an effective way to keep mosquitoes away from you. It can be used over your bed, stroller, or playpen.
- Eliminate standing water: Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Therefore, eliminating standing water sources will help reduce the mosquito population.
- Change your lightbulbs: Mosquitoes are attracted to light. Changing your lightbulbs to yellow or CFL bulbs will help to keep them away from your home.
With so many options to repel mosquitoes, preventing mosquitoes from coming to your home should always be the priority. However, if you have a mosquito infestation already, don’t hesitate to contact a professional to help you solve the problem. They will be able to help you get rid of the mosquitoes and prevent them from coming back.
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