Bug-Free Summer
Nothing ruins a BBQ or night out quite like getting attacked by mosquitoes. Even just thinking about those pesky bites is enough to make someone start itching. Female mosquitoes need your blood to reproduce. After taking your blood, mosquitoes inject saliva into your skin that triggers an immune response that causes you to itch, explains Eva Buckner, PhD, medical entomology extension specialist at the Florida Medical Entomology Laboratory at the University of Florida. Affiliate links used below.
Best DEET-Free Bug Sprays
DEET, or N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide, is among the most-studied mosquito repellants; it’s effective and safe as long as it’s used correctly. But if you’d prefer a natural solution, Buckner says that other active ingredients can also repel mosquitoes. Repellants recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are safest, she says, because they also protect against mosquito-borne illnesses.
Bug Spray Alternatives
Other mosquito-repelling chemicals include picaridin, IR3535, PMD (p-menthane-3,8-diol), and 2-Undecanone. The CDC also recommends oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE), an extract derived from the leaves of the lemon eucalyptus tree. “That’s the most natural of the active ingredients the CDC recommends,” says Buckner. The active ingredient in OLE is PMD, so they usually go hand in hand. That said, some forms of PMD in bug repellents are synthetic, so if you want a natural option, stick with OLE.
Citronella & More
Other plant-based ingredients, such as essential oils, may also effectively repel mosquitoes, but because they’re not vetted by the CDC, they may not prevent mosquito-borne illnesses. Buckner encourages consumers to use them at their own risk. Regardless of your choice of repellant, it’s imperative to follow the instructions on the label. For example, note that kids three years old and younger shouldn’t use OLE.
Bug-Bite Aftercare
If the bites still happened, check out these aftercare remedies to get rid of the pain and itch fast.