Are You a Mosquito Magnet?

Why is it that some people wind up covered in mosquito welts and others get away - bite-free? According to Newsweek, it’s not a coincidence. Each person’s individual body chemistry determines how many mosquitoes will come calling. Joe Conlon is a medical entomologist – someone who deals with insects. He says mosquitoes are drawn to the scent of carbon dioxide and lactic acid. These two compounds are released whenever we breathe or sweat, but the emission rates vary by person.

Larger people and pregnant woman, for example, have higher levels and are more likely targets. When you couple the scents of these compounds with extra body heat – watch out! So if you’ve recently exercised, the combination of lactic acid, which builds up when muscles are exerted – sweat, which is filled with carbon dioxide - and an increased temperature make you an ideal mosquito meal. With more than 300 body compounds that influence insect attraction, scientists haven’t figured out every body chemistry combination that the bugs like. There are some things to consider. For example:

* Since mosquitoes drink dew, they may have a preference for artificially sweet-scented bodies. Which means you might wanna lay off the perfume if you’ll be spending time outdoors.
* Also, research has shown that mosquitoes prefer landing on darker fabrics than light ones, so stay away from black or blue clothing. Also, make sure your shirt isn’t too tight. If it is, the insects will siphon right through it.
* Smelly feet are also a mosquito magnet. The bacteria in Limburger cheese is also found on the human foot - and mosquitoes love it! So keep your feet clean and dry, and in ventilated shoes.
* Wear one of the 4 Centers for Disease Control-approved repellents - DEET, Picaridin, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus or IR3535, which has made Avon’s Skin-so-Soft lotion a popular choice. Sprays and lotions containing these have all been deemed effective and safe to keep the bugs at bay.