Summer has arrived in the UK and coupled with the recent heatwave conditions across the nation, insect bites and stings are emerging as an ever-prevalent problem. Pesky mosquitoes, along with a plethora of bugs, come out to play during warmer temperatures so it’s important to protect oneself from potentially harmful stings and itchy bites.
Many of us are all too familiar with that red-hot, swollen, itching sensation and would do anything to prevent feeling it. The good news? Bite prevention expert – and creator of incognito insect repellents – Howard Carter has shared a super simple and effective method to prevent those maddening insect bites.
Carter says: “Research by Glasgow University has found over 20 species of mosquito in Scotland, with some found as far north as the Shetland Islands.
“They are most commonly found in woodland areas, but also in cities. Not surprisingly, numbers were highest in the summer, but sightings were all year round.”
Alongside mosquitoes, the UK hosts numerous other biting insects including midges, ticks, bed bugs, sand flies, land leeches, black flies, stable flies and horse flies.
Carter recommends: “For effective bite prevention, at home as well as abroad, try my CLOAK method.”
C: Cover up arms and legs with suitable clothing.
L: Light-coloured clothes are strongly advisable because mosquitoes are attracted to dark colours.
O: Odours, bodily or ordinary scented washing products and perfumes can be strong attractants, so wash with citronella or other repellent shower gels, shampoo and soaps. If you are a mosquito magnet, exfoliate with a loofah.
A: Apply an effective, preferably natural, insect repellent containing “PMD”.
K: Keep away from stagnant water if possible.
Carter advises: “A lot of mosquitoes zero in on the ears, wrists and ankles because this is where the skin is thinner and blood vessels are nearer the surface. So, it is a good idea to wash with a soap or loofah that contains citronella, then spray and use a moisturiser containing a clinically proven repellent. But always use the spray last.”
He further suggests: “Use protection on any exposed skin and spray your clothing as well; mosquitoes can and will bite through fabric, even thick jeans.”
The bite prevention expert even advises spraying insect repellent on and around doors in the house before entering, as mosquitoes often lie in wait on the outside of doors and windows. Following this simple procedure will help to effectively keep them out of the home.
It’s important to note that some insect bites require medical attention straight away as they can lead to severe reactions. Immediately consult a medical professional if you feel something isn’t right.