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Backpacker: Is Your Backcountry Skincare Routine Attracting Mosquitos?

Getting bit? It could be your backcountry hygiene—or lack thereof.

Backpacker: Is Your Backcountry Skincare Routine Attracting Mosquitos?

Last updated:
July 25, 2024
|  5 min read
A photo of a person with a mosquito net over their face with mosquitos crawling on it.

Backpacker: Is Your Backcountry Skincare Routine Attracting Mosquitos?

Backpacker: Is Your Backcountry Skincare Routine Attracting Mosquitos?

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Getting bit? It could be your backcountry hygiene—or lack thereof.

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Backpacker: Is Your Backcountry Skincare Routine Attracting Mosquitos?

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Is Your Backcountry Skincare Routine Attracting Mosquitos?

Most hikers know not to carry too many scented products into the backcountry—but new research shows it’s not just bears they could be attracting. According to a 2023 paper, perfumes and soaps—especially those with natural, plant-derived scents—can act like mosquito magnets. The same is true of scented deodorants, sunscreens, and other skincare products.

You might read that and be tempted to give up your backcountry hygiene routine altogether. However, research also shows that mosquitos are attracted to the scent of human sweat and BO. So, what’s worse: using mosquito-attracting skincare products, or skipping out on personal hygiene altogether?

Continue reading to learn more, written by Amelia Arvesen.

Backpacker: Is Your Backcountry Skincare Routine Attracting Mosquitos?

Is Your Backcountry Skincare Routine Attracting Mosquitos?

Most hikers know not to carry too many scented products into the backcountry—but new research shows it’s not just bears they could be attracting. According to a 2023 paper, perfumes and soaps—especially those with natural, plant-derived scents—can act like mosquito magnets. The same is true of scented deodorants, sunscreens, and other skincare products.

You might read that and be tempted to give up your backcountry hygiene routine altogether. However, research also shows that mosquitos are attracted to the scent of human sweat and BO. So, what’s worse: using mosquito-attracting skincare products, or skipping out on personal hygiene altogether?

Continue reading to learn more, written by Amelia Arvesen.

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Author
Amelia Arvesen
Based in Portland, Oregon, Amelia Arvesen is an independent journalist exploring the intersection of humans and their environments, whether they’re on the trail or in their studios.
Media Mentions

Backpacker: Is Your Backcountry Skincare Routine Attracting Mosquitos?

Is Your Backcountry Skincare Routine Attracting Mosquitos?

Most hikers know not to carry too many scented products into the backcountry—but new research shows it’s not just bears they could be attracting. According to a 2023 paper, perfumes and soaps—especially those with natural, plant-derived scents—can act like mosquito magnets. The same is true of scented deodorants, sunscreens, and other skincare products.

You might read that and be tempted to give up your backcountry hygiene routine altogether. However, research also shows that mosquitos are attracted to the scent of human sweat and BO. So, what’s worse: using mosquito-attracting skincare products, or skipping out on personal hygiene altogether?

Continue reading to learn more, written by Amelia Arvesen.

Photo thumbnail Blog Author
Author
Amelia Arvesen
Based in Portland, Oregon, Amelia Arvesen is an independent journalist exploring the intersection of humans and their environments, whether they’re on the trail or in their studios.
Media Mentions
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