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New study reveals how you can repel mosquitoes this summer

Certain over-the-counter soaps in Spain have been found to deter the pesky insects

Mosquitoes are arguably the most irritating thing about summer in Spain, their incessant buzzing making sleep next to impossible for many. But have you ever noticed that some people act like magnets for the irritating insects while others suffer not a single bite?

There are many anecdotes doing the rounds, such as that mosquitoes are attracted to a certain blood type, or that eating pungent foods like garlic will keep them at bay. But in reality, these things have little to do with it.

In fact, research has revealed that it’s actually the chemical compounds on our skin that attract these insects and now a study published in iScience magazine claims to have finally found a way to repel mosquitoes. And the best news is that it’s a simple change to make.

Scientists at the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University in the US have studied the unique smell of people’s bodies, and how this interacts with certain soaps. Their research has led to them identifying which aromas attract mosquitoes and, more importantly, which ones will keep them away.

While the researchers acknowledge that there is no magic solution to avoiding mosquito bites altogether, what they have found constitutes “a compelling reason to change the soap that is used.”

Which scents deter mosquitoes?

According to leader of the study, Clement Vinauger, MD, many factors that attract mosquitoes, such as the colour of clothing, the carbon dioxide on our breath etc, can’t be controlled, but what can be altered is the kind of fragrance we choose to wear.

The scientists believe that floral scents draw blood-sucking insects, since they use aromas emitted by plants to find nectar. On the other hand, "multiple publications show that coconut-derived chemicals tend to have a repellent effect on blood-feeding insects. So if you're prone to mosquito bites, this might be the way to go," Vinauger said.

However, the way in which different fragrances interact with our individual body odour still holds the key, so more research is needed.

So, what do the professionals advise?

"If you live in or travel to areas where mosquito-borne diseases are common, I would highly recommend using conventional mosquito repellents, as commercial soap formulas are no substitute for an effective repellent, and the duration of the effects are yet to be determined," Vinauger summed up.

Now read: UV protection in Spain—Top 10 sunscreens according to consumer experts

Image: Freepik

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