I asked Dr. Stefan Weiss, a dermatologist affiliated with West Boca Medical Center to let Fit Life readers know what they can do to prevent bug bites this summer. Here’s what Dr. Weiss, who practices at the Weiss Skin Institute, had to say.
Fit Life: Are some people more prone to bug (including mosquito) bites than others?
Dr. Weiss: Indeed, some people are more prone to bug bites than others. People who exhale more carbon dioxide are attractive to mosquitoes. In addition, those who expel more lactic or uric acid will find themselves with more bites. So what does this mean? If you have just done a heavy exercise routine, you will be more likely to fall victim to the mosquito. After exercise, you have a higher body temperature, exhale more carbon dioxide and the skin has a higher concentration of lactic acid from the muscle breakdown. Pregnant women tend to run hotter and expel more carbon dioxide when they breathe; as such, they too get bitten more frequently.
Fit Life: What are the most skin-friendly, healthy products that work to prevent bug bites?
Dr. Weiss: Repellents with 23.8% DEET (most formulas contain between 10% and 30%) protect wearers for about five hours. DEET has been in use for over 40 years and has been shown to be very safe.
Picaridin, proven to be as effective as DEET, but because it is odorless is thought [to be] more pleasant than DEET. Picaridin is safe for children older than 2 months.
The chemical IR3535, i.e. Avon’s Skin-So-Soft, also has been marketed as a mosquito repellent, but research shows it’s much less effective than DEET.
Oil of eucalyptus products may offer longer-lasting protection, similar to low concentrations of DEET. Lemon eucalyptus is safe for children older than 3 years.
Metofluthrin is available in two forms. As a paper strip, you place it in outdoor areas like patios and decks, or you wear it clipped onto a belt or clothing. It relies on a battery-powered fan to release the mosquito repellent into the area, surrounding and protecting the wearer. It is not applied to the skin.
Fit Life: What shouldn’t we use on our skin to prevent bug bites, and why?
Dr. Weiss: There are those who argue against DEET as it is a chemical. As noted above, most of the evidence suggests that it is safe. However, there are many non-chemical alternatives for those who are concerned, including planting marigolds around your property as a natural defense.
Fit Life: If we are bitten, what can we do to calm the itching?
Usually over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams will calm the itching. Benadryl pills also work as they block the histamine, which is the source of the itching. However, they can make you tired.
Fit Life: How can you tell when a bug bite needs a doctor’s attention?
Should the area become red, swollen, or develop yellow crusting—these would all be signs of infection and should be seen immediately for evaluation and treatment. In addition, if redness or swelling becomes more extensive in the area, [it could be a sign] of a more serious infection called cellulitis.
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About Lisette
Lisette Hilton, president of Words Come Alive, has had the luxury of reporting on health, fitness and other hot topics for more than 23 years. The longtime Boca Raton resident, University of Florida graduate and fitness buff writes for local, regional and national publications and websites. Find out more on wordscomealive.com.
