Don't bug out over summer's little pests. Bite back!
REPEL THEM WITH DEET
Scientists think mosquitoes avoid the chemical deet because it masks the human scents that attract them. But new research suggests that maybe skeeters just can't stand the stuff. Many humans, worried about toxins, agree.
Bottom line: Deet remains the most effective insect repellent on the market, and the American Association of Pediatrics says it's OK for kids ages 2 months and up if used properly (go to aap.org for details).
GO NATURAL
Studies show that geranium, peppermint, and other essential oils can repel some mosquito species for more than an hour. In one study, a 2% soybean oil product kept bugs away for about 90 minutes.
Bottom line: Leery of deet? Try a repellent with geranium oil in it, such as Bug Bam or BugBand (both offer repellent wristbands) or a soybean oil-based product, such as Bite Blocker for Kids.
COVER UP
Thwart mosquitoes and ticks by wearing pants and long sleeves. (If you're wearing thin layers, though, you'll still need repellent.) Mosquitoes home in on dark colors, so wear white as much as possible.
Bottom line: Although it may not be practical during the dog days of summer, the simplest way to avoid bug bites is to not give bugs access to your skin. For maximum protection against ticks, commit a fashion faux pas and pull your socks over your pants.
CHECK YOUR YARD
Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water, and they don't need much: they can breed in the water in an upturned soda-bottle cap.
Bottom line: Get rid of standing water, fix clogged gutters, and change birdbath water at least twice a week. If you have a pond, try mosquito dunks, which contain bacteria harmful to skeeter larvae, but nontoxic to mammals, fish, and birds.
STOP THE ITCH
Hydrocortisone is an old standby. If you don't have any handy, try a home remedy. Jennifer Zartarian, a wellness expert at Long Island College Hospital, recommends mixing a heaping tablespoon of baking soda with just enough water to make a paste, then smearing it on the bite. For an even quicker fix, rub the area with an ice cube.
Bottom line: Bug bites itch when blood vessels at the site swell, irritating nerves. Ice and astringents like baking soda help shrink the vessels, which relieves the itch.
