International Header

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

Backpacker: Is Your Backcountry Skincare Routine Attracting Mosquitos?

Backpacker: Is Your Backcountry Skincare Routine Attracting Mosquitos?

YouTube video highlight

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

Read more about the project

Backpacker: Is Your Backcountry Skincare Routine Attracting Mosquitos?

Thumbnail Slider Image
No se han encontrado artículos.

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.

Foto miniatura Blog Autor
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.
Menciones en los medios de comunicación

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.

Foto miniatura Blog Autor
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.
Menciones en los medios de comunicación
browse all articles
Aquí en Sawyer
Halfway Anywhere: Continental Divide Trail Gear Guide (2025 Survey)
Read More

Menciones en los medios de comunicación

Babies carried in treated wraps were about two-thirds, or 66 per cent, less likely to develop the disease.

Maeve Cullinan
Global Health Security Reporter

Menciones en los medios de comunicación

This particular formula is nongreasy, nonsticky, and lacks a strong odor, making it highly appealing for direct skin application.

Jill Di Donato
Escritor

Menciones en los medios de comunicación

The best filter, I took care to sleep with it on cold nights and back-flushed her in town.

Lauren “Mothra” Mullen
Hiker, Writer
<<  Previous Post
No previous post!
Check out our Directory
Next Post  >>
No next post!
Check out our Directory