How can you make yourself a less tasty target? We got tips from Taz Stuart, City Entomologist for Winnipeg, one of Canada's most mosquito-plagued cities. We also highlight some of the latest and greatest in insect repelling products you can use on your body or your property this summer.
And, if all else fails, we have some bite coping advice courtesy of Dr. Peter Vignjevic, dermatologist and assistant professor of medicine at Hamilton, Ont.'s McMaster University.
Bug repelling basics
Topical bug repellants come in two basic forms: chemical and natural-based products.
The most effective chemical insect repellant to date is DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide), the active ingredient in most spray-on repellants. DEET has been on the market for about 50 years. It masks your scent so biting insects can't locate you.
"The maximum percentage of a 30 per cent DEET personal protection product will provide approximately six hours of protection from bites, when properly applied to an adult. There are varying concentrations of DEET below 30 per cent available and they would have various times of protection – so reading the label is imperative," says Stuart, adding that swimming, sweating and improper application can all lower a products repellency.
Today, many consumers are looking for chemical-free, natural insect repellants because they are concerned about the possible heath and ecological impact of chemicals. Natural products either use odours which keep bugs at bay or, in the case of citronella, odours that mask the bug-attracting scent of lactic acid on our bodies. Common active ingredients include essentials oils of herbs like eucalyptus, lemongrass and mint, as well as citronella.
Natural products do not have the same scientifically proven track record of success as DEET, says Stuart.
However, a recent University Of Guelph study backs the efficacy claims of a new natural product called All Terrain (see below), and the US Centers for Disease Control now recognizes a processed form of oil of lemon eucalyptus or PMD, as an effective mosquito repellant.
You can boost the effectiveness of your chosen insect repellant by either eradicating pest flies from your immediate vicinity (with a bug zapper or traps), or, says Stuart, simply by covering up.
"Wear lightly coloured, loose fitting, long sleeved shirts and pants and if required, a mosquito head-net to prevent landing on the head and face. It's also important to minimize or not use any colognes or perfumes, and hair products, as these can act as additional attractants," says Stuart.
Page 1 of 3 - Read page two for products that will keep the bugs at bay!
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