Good weather promises warmer temperatures and time spent outdoors. It also brings mosquitoes.
If you feel like mosquitoes target you more than others, it might have to do with the soap you’re using along with your unique body chemistry.
A study was conducted by Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University researchers to identify the scents that attract and repel mosquitoes by analyzing the distinct odor profiles of individuals and various soaps. The findings were published in the journal iScience.
According to experts, there is no foolproof way to prevent mosquito bites, but the information available strongly suggests that changing the soap you are using could be an effective solution.
Previous research has shown that mosquitoes are drawn towards individuals through a combination of cues, including carbon dioxide present in our exhalation, scent signals generated by our metabolism or skin microbiome, visual cues such as the clothes we wear, and others. The variations in attraction among people can be attributed to differences in these cues, especially the unique odor profile of each individual.
While many of these factors cannot be controlled, the fragrance of a person’s soap of choice can be.
According to the research, there are specific chemicals that are typically present in soap that can either attract or repel mosquitoes. These chemicals have been identified as playing a significant role in determining mosquito behavior towards humans. Therefore, it is advisable to be aware of the type of soap you use, especially if you live in an area with high mosquito activity, to minimize the chances of being bitten.
Research pointed out that coconut-scented soaps appear to be the most repulsive for mosquitoes. However, the most effective method for repelling these pests is by using a reliable repellent.
