How to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes

Choosing the right mosquito repellent depends on several factors, such as who will use it, what conditions it will be in, and how strong protection is needed. 

If it is about infants ή young children, the use of chemicals such as DEET is not advisable. Instead, milder products, usually of plant origin, such as those containing citronella, lavender or eucalyptusIn such cases, there are also stickers or wristbands with natural oils that offer limited but safe protection, especially for mild conditions, such as an afternoon walk.

For adults, there is the possibility of using more active ingredients. DEET is considered one of the most effective, especially at rates of 20%-50% when it comes to areas with a strong presence of mosquitoes or traveling to tropical places, where there is also a risk of disease transmission. There are alternatives such as IR3535 or Picaridin (also known as Icaridin), which offer good protection with a more pleasant texture and without the strong odor of DEET. They are usually marketed in spray, lotion or roll-on form, for easy application to the body.

If we are in indoors, we use liquid-filled devices that are plugged into the outlet or mosquito repellent candles that act in space and not directly on the skin. However, if we are going to spend time outside, especially in areas with high humidity or near standing water, a strong body spray is essential. In such conditions, it is also recommended to apply it to clothing, since many mosquitoes bite even through fabrics.

When choosing mosquito repellent, it is a good idea to pay attention to the duration of action indicated on the packaging. The mildest, natural products offer protection for 2-4 hours, while chemicals can last up to 8-12 hours. If we have sensitive skin or allergies, we prefer hypoallergenic formulations and always do a small test before full application. In any case, mosquito repellent should be applied to clean, dry skin, never to open wounds or irritated areas and with caution on the face, it is better to spray on the hands first and then spread gently.

If we are looking for more natural solutions, citronella, lavender, basil and geranium are considered relatively effective herbal repellents. Although they do not last as long as chemicals, they can be used without fear, even several times a day.

The DEET (N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide) is the most classic and well-studied active ingredient. It does not kill mosquitoes, but confuses them and prevents them from detecting the person, affecting their olfactory receptors. The higher the DEET content, the longer the duration of protection (usually up to 10 hours). However, in very sensitive skin or in young children, it can cause mild irritation, which is why it is recommended in moderation.

The Picaridin ή icaridin is a more modern alternative, offering similar effectiveness to DEET, but without the greasy feel and characteristic smellIt also acts as a repellent, affecting the insect's sensors that detect carbon dioxide and human body odors.

The IR3535 is a mild ingredient with good skin tolerance, suitable even for children or sensitive skin. It offers protection from mosquitoes and other insects, but its duration is more limited (usually 4-6 hours).

In more natural options, we find the citronella oil, which acts as a deterrent thanks to its strong aroma, which covers or "blurs" the signals that mosquitoes use to find their host. Other essences such as lavender, geranium, mint, royal ή eucalyptus, which create an unpleasant environment for mosquitoes, reducing the chances of bites. However, these natural ingredients need to be reapplied more frequently, because their action lasts less (about 2-3 hours).

Η ingredient selection It also depends on the environment: in areas with a high insect load or the presence of diseases (such as malaria), ingredients with proven, long-lasting action, such as DEET or Picaridin, are more reliable.