The Research Behind Mosquitoes and Soap
Let’s face it; mosquito bites are the worst. These bumps itch and swell up, make you uncomfortable, and all the people allergic to these nasty bites undergo negative reactions that occur within the body. Yes, these rashes and soreness are bad but how about this: does it ever seem these mosquitoes just won’t quit and leave you alone or like they just keep coming after you?
Depending on the brand of soap (or body wash) you use, will determine if mosquitos will be attracted or repelled to you, according to a team at Virginia Tech. Dr. Cleme said that most mosquitoes find an unwashed individual remarkably attractive and that one cleanser can make them even more attractive. In addition, not all brands have the same effects on all people.
He mentioned that our environments, daily activities, and the food we eat dictate this reasoning as well. Soaps can drastically change our skin. The chemicals incorporated in the soap pass down to our skin, meaning that even if two people use the same brand of soap, their bodies will release different smells. Which dictates the “level of attractiveness” for bugs.
To figure out a mosquito’s scent preferences, Dr. Clement and his research team experimented by grouping four volunteers. They then tested different soap and body wash brands around nearby bugs. (Note: the brands used included Dial, dove, native, and simple truth.) to be least to most attractive. In their experiment, this list includes native dial, simple truth, then dove. They mentioned in their research that they would pick coconut-scented as their preference since it reduces mosquito attraction.
Natural Easy to Reduce Mosquito Count
Yes, there are plenty of ways to get rid of mosquitoes, but if you’re not up for it, then try to switch your brand of soap or use unscented. Mosquitoes aren’t just attracted to the smell of soap, they are also attracted to the smell of that individual’s bodily odor. It would be wise to use unscented cleansers, otherwise, invest in natural essential oils.
- Lemon eucalyptus oil. Used since 1940 and is a well-known natural repellent. Try creating your mixture with one part lemon eucalyptus oil and then 10 parts sunflower oil or witch hazel. Note: It is not advised to use on children younger than 3 years old.
- Lavender. “Are mosquitoes attracted to sweet smells?” They are, but lavender produces a fragrance and an oil that repels mosquitoes. You can try and grow lavender around your home to further repel them away from you. And lavender oil is also good for the skin!
- Cinnamon oil. Cinnamon may be good on sweet treats, but it also can be used to exterminate mosquito eggs, according to a study in Taiwan. Mix 1/4 teaspoon (or 24 drops) of oil for every four ounces of water. Try spraying the mixture on cloth, around your home, onto plants, or even your skin. (Note: be careful. Cinnamon oil at a concentrated dose could irritate your skin.
- Soybean oil. Soybean-based products like Bite Block Kids (2 percent soybean oil) could provide long-lasting protection from mosquitoes.
- Tea tree oil. Studies suggest that tea tree oil might be effective as a mosquito repellent. Repellents that contain tree oil are effective against mosquitoes, bush flies, and biting midges.
By: Khalyse Hemingway
Sources:
The Good News Network: Some People Are Magnets for Mosquitoes – It Could Be the Soap They’re Using
Prevention: Does soap smell attract mosquitos?
Health: Could Your Soap Be Making You More Attractive to Mosquitoes?
Inset Image Courtesy of Maurits Verbiest Flicker page -Creative Commons License
Featured Image by James L. Occi Courtesy of AFPMB Flicker page -Creative Commons License
