Summer is upon us, and while we're all excited about fun in the sun, we can't ignore the not-so-welcome guests that come with it – mosquitoes!
Those pesky little buzzers can turn a perfect day into an itchy nightmare, the effects of which can last for a week or more.
Fear not!
We're here to equip you with all the knowledge you need to fend off these winged invaders and keep your skin happy and healthy.
The Buzz About Mosquitoes and Skincare
Mosquitoes might be tiny, but their impact can be huge! Apart from the irritation and itching caused by their bites, these buzzing culprits can also transmit diseases.
- Choose Your Armour Wisely: The first line of defense against mosquitoes is choosing the right skincare products. Opt for natural insect repellents containing ingredients like citronella, lemon eucalyptus, or lavender oil. These plant-based repellents can keep mosquitoes at bay, and prevent your skin from experiencing secondary effects of chemical exposure or drying agents.
Love DIY? Make your own insect-repellent HERE!
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Diet Matters: Try consuming foods high in allicin. If you are already a garlic lover, you are are likely already cashing in on the benefits! Other allicin containing foods include : onions, leeks, and chives - all best consumed fresh. Think about eating more thiamine containing foods, thats your Legumes & Tomatoes and bring on the vinaigrettes! Mosquitoes do not like the smell of thiamine foods or vinegar metabolized, so eat your dahl with some fresh salad and light dressing on the side and enjoy! For some, supplementation of vitamin B1 has also proved effective. Try to avoid sugary and alcohol containing foods.
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Cover Up: Mosquitoes are sneaky creatures, so covering up can be a great preventive measure. Wearing light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing can help reduce the chances of getting bitten.
- Timing Matters: Mosquitoes are most active during dawn and dusk, so planning outdoor activities during other times of the day can minimize your exposure.
All-Natural Bite Remedies
Despite our best efforts, sometimes those pesky mosquitoes manage to sneak in a bite. We've got your back with some wonderful natural remedies to soothe and treat:
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Aloe Vera Gel: Our hero, Aloe Vera, comes to the rescue! Its anti-inflammatory properties work wonders to alleviate itchiness and redness from mosquito bites. Apply a dab of fresh Aloe Vera gel directly to the affected area for instant relief. You can now find fresh aloe in most supermarkets.
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Oatmeal Soak: An oatmeal bath isn't just a treat for your skin; it can also provide much-needed relief from any type of itchy discomfort, including mosquito bites. Grind some oatmeal into a fine powder and add it to a lukewarm bath. Soak for 15-20 minutes to calm irritated skin.
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Tea Tree Oil: This powerful essential oil is known for its antimicrobial properties and can help prevent mosquito bites from becoming infected. Dilute a few drops of tea tree oil with a light oil and apply to the affected area.
- Comfrey: Another anti-inflammatory giant, apply bruised comfrey leaf or infused oil to the site to reduce swelling and itching. Especially useful if your bites tend to spread.
Consider yourself armed to go forth and enjoy the summer!
SALT OF THE EARTH believes in harnessing the power of nature to nurture your skin. So, whether it's managing mosquitos or rejuvenating your complexion, we can employ nature to do it!
Stay radiant Friends!
