While summer is all about outdoor activities, beaches, parks, and waterparks, it also brings along unwelcome guests, such as mosquitoes. These flying nuisances not only leave itchy bites and bumps on our skin but also transmit a variety of diseases, like dengue, malaria, and chikungunya, which can be life-threatening.
As temperatures rise and mosquito populations boom, they become rampant, turning those enjoyable outdoor evenings into a frenzy. So what do you do about them? As is known, there are several repellents that are available on the market in the form of sprays, coils, and essential oils. But which one is the most effective? We asked Dr Shrey Srivastav, Assistant Professor - Internal Medicine, Sharda Hospital, Greater Noida, who shed light on the same.
Also Read: Mosquito Season Is Back, Try These 7 Home Remedies To Prevent Bites
How Useful Are Sprays?
When it comes to getting rid of mosquitoes, mosquito repellent sprays are a popular choice, which come in a variety of formulas.
According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), some of the active ingredients to look for include:
- DEET
- IR3535
- Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE)*
- Picaridin (KBR 3023)
Listing down some of the common advantages of using mosquito repellent sprays, Dr Srivastav shares:
- Sprays are easy to use and can be applied directly to the skin or clothing.
- Many sprays contain active ingredients like DEET or picaridin, which are known to repel mosquitoes effectively.
- Sprays are often available in compact, travel-sized bottles, making them ideal for outdoor activities.
Disadvantages of using sprays include:
- Chemical exposure and sensitivity to the chemicals found in mosquito sprays
- The need for reapplication every few hours for continuous protection
- Strong odour that may be unpleasant to some individuals
Pros And Cons Of Coils
Another option for keeping mosquitoes away are coils, which are spirals of insecticides that, when burned, form a perimeter of protection in your surrounding area.
Some of the pros of using coils include:
- Long-lasting, depending on the size and brand
- Generally less expensive
- Suitable for indoor use
Here are the cons:
- Coils produce smoke when burned, which can be irritating to some people and may cause respiratory issues.
- Most effective in small, enclosed spaces; may not provide sufficient protection outdoors.
- Improper use can pose a fire hazard.
Are Essential Oils Effective?
If you're looking for something natural, essential oils are your best bet. Certain oils, like citronella, lemongrass, and eucalyptus, contain compounds that are said to repel mosquitoes.
Some of the benefits include:
- Safer alternatives to chemical-based repellents.
- They come with a pleasant aroma, making them more appealing to use than traditional sprays or coils.
- Can be diffused, applied topically, or mixed with other ingredients to create homemade repellents.
Here's why you may not want to invest in it:
- Shorter-lasting protection compared to chemical-based repellents
- The effectiveness can vary depending on factors such as concentration, purity, and individual sensitivity.
- Some people may experience allergic reactions or skin irritation when using essential oils, especially when applied directly to the skin.
Also Read: Summer Mosquito Attack: Follow These Steps To Protect Yourself From Mosquitoes This Season
Which One Is Most Effective - Sprays, Coils Or Essential Oils?
Depending on your preferences and your surroundings, your choice of mosquito repellents may vary.
For those who want a more effective and convenient remedy, you can opt for sprays, especially with DEET, as they can give you protection anywhere. However, the duration of protection may be limited, and therefore, it may require reapplication.
For people who wish to create a zone of protection, coils may come in handy. However, the smoke can become a problem.
If you're looking for a more natural remedy, you can choose essential oils. However, some people may have to watch for skin irritation and allergies.
If necessary, you can also combine methods and see what works for you best.
Conclusion
While many mosquito repellents are available on the market, additional steps and home remedies can be taken to keep the annoying insects at bay. From wearing long clothing and avoiding peak mosquito hours to using mosquito nets, avoiding strong scents, and eliminating standing water, it can help significantly. Ensure that you leave no stone unturned and protect yourself and your loved ones from the menacing pests.