Easy ways to find relief from mosquitos without using DEET or calamine lotion

As the summer months approach, people are sure to have visions of barbecues, pool parties and enjoying the warm sunshine. However, this time of year also stirs up the pesky buzzing and biting of mosquitoes. For most people, the itching and swelling are kept to a minimum, but for others, the bites can be painful and the irritation can last for several days. But fear not; you can protect your skin from these vulture-like insects.

Does it sometimes feel like every mosquito is interested in your skin? The truth is, there are a number of conditions that can make you a mosquito’s No. 1 target. Here are things that mosquitoes like best:

• Heat and movement—This could explain why active children seem to be covered in bites.
• Bacteria—People have about one trillion microbes on their skin’s surface, essentially creating a mosquito buffet.
• Chemical compounds—Mosquitoes enjoy a wide variety of compounds, primarily carbon dioxide.

Interesting fact: Male mosquitoes are not interested in your blood but rather the chemical compounds on the surface of your skin. Females, however, thirst for blood to produce eggs. 

The best way to shield your skin from mosquito bites is to use a good repellent. There are a few key defensive actions you should take:

• Apply a repellent spray that contains DEET.
• Stay indoors during mosquito high-activity time.
• Wear clothing that covers your skin.
• Remove or avoid standing water near you.
• Protect your home from mosquitoes.

For folks seeking a natural approach, there are mosquito repellent options for you, too. Here's a few solutions:

• Essentials oil, such as citronella, are an excellent natural remedy, but they usually require frequent repeat applications to remain effective.

• While there is not extensive research, some people claim that eating garlic helps ward off mosquitoes.

• Burning a candle can be useful since mosquitoes avoid fire and smoke. 

• Taking a daily dose of vitamin B-1 might alter your skin's scent enough that mosquitoes are not as attracted to you. 

While it is certainly easier said than done, you should never scratch a mosquito bite. Scratching only compounds the problem by increasing chances of infection. Instead, you should focus on ways to soothe and treat the bites. Here are a few solutions:

• Keep the area clean by gently washing with soap and water.
• Apply calamine lotion to the bite area.
• Put ice or a cool washcloth on the itchy spot.
• Take an antihistamine.

In some cases, the more traditional treatments simply do not work or may cause an allergic reaction. Alternative treatments include:

• Vicks VapoRub works wonders for soothing itchy skin. The active ingredients of camphor, eucalyptol and menthol have been used for many years to treat skin issues, including insect bites. Simply apply the cream directly to the infected area with a cotton swab until it is absorbed completely by the skin. It is safe to use as needed. 

• Honey is another option. Honey is an antibacterial ingredient that can reduce the chances of infection.

• Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the itch and reduce swelling.

• Basil leaves can be used both as a repellent and natural treatment for itchy bites.

• Like the Vicks VapoRub, Listerine also has menthol, which can be used to curb itching.

While most mosquito bites serve as a reminder that we should take better precautions, there could be severe side effects. If a mosquito bite leads to vomiting, fever, or shortness of breath, you should seek emergency medical treatment.