Is Your Backcountry Skincare Routine Attracting Mosquitos?

Most hikers know not to carry too many scented products into the backcountry—but new research shows it’s not just bears they could be attracting. According to a 2023 paper, perfumes and soaps—especially those with natural, plant-derived scents—can act like mosquito magnets. The same is true of scented deodorants, sunscreens, and other skincare products.

You might read that and be tempted to give up your backcountry hygiene routine altogether. However, research also shows that mosquitos are attracted to the scent of human sweat and BO. So, what’s worse: using mosquito-attracting skincare products, or skipping out on personal hygiene altogether?

Continue reading to learn more, written by Amelia Arvesen.

Backpacker: Is Your Backcountry Skincare Routine Attracting Mosquitos?

Close-up of a green mesh net covering a person’s face with multiple small bugs trapped inside.
Close-up of a green mesh net covering a person’s face with multiple small bugs trapped inside.

Is Your Backcountry Skincare Routine Attracting Mosquitos?

Most hikers know not to carry too many scented products into the backcountry—but new research shows it’s not just bears they could be attracting. According to a 2023 paper, perfumes and soaps—especially those with natural, plant-derived scents—can act like mosquito magnets. The same is true of scented deodorants, sunscreens, and other skincare products.

You might read that and be tempted to give up your backcountry hygiene routine altogether. However, research also shows that mosquitos are attracted to the scent of human sweat and BO. So, what’s worse: using mosquito-attracting skincare products, or skipping out on personal hygiene altogether?

Continue reading to learn more, written by Amelia Arvesen.

照片缩略图 博客作者
Author
Amelia Arvesen
Based in Portland, Oregon, Amelia Arvesen is an independent journalist exploring the intersection of humans and their environments, whether they’re on the trail or in their studios.
媒体报道

Backpacker: Is Your Backcountry Skincare Routine Attracting Mosquitos?

Close-up of a green mesh net covering a person’s face with multiple small bugs trapped inside.
Close-up of a green mesh net covering a person’s face with multiple small bugs trapped inside.

Is Your Backcountry Skincare Routine Attracting Mosquitos?

Most hikers know not to carry too many scented products into the backcountry—but new research shows it’s not just bears they could be attracting. According to a 2023 paper, perfumes and soaps—especially those with natural, plant-derived scents—can act like mosquito magnets. The same is true of scented deodorants, sunscreens, and other skincare products.

You might read that and be tempted to give up your backcountry hygiene routine altogether. However, research also shows that mosquitos are attracted to the scent of human sweat and BO. So, what’s worse: using mosquito-attracting skincare products, or skipping out on personal hygiene altogether?

Continue reading to learn more, written by Amelia Arvesen.

照片缩略图 博客作者
Author
Amelia Arvesen
Based in Portland, Oregon, Amelia Arvesen is an independent journalist exploring the intersection of humans and their environments, whether they’re on the trail or in their studios.
媒体报道
browse all articles
在索耶

Recent mentions

Close-up of a small tick crawling on the edge of a textured green leaf.
媒体报道
June 2, 2026
MSN: Warmer Winter Could Lead To An Increase In Ticks
As more Northern Nevadans head outdoors this spring and summer, experts say hikers should be aware of a small pest that can cause big problems — ticks.
View post
Close-up of a small tick crawling on beige fabric outdoors with blurred green and brown background.
媒体报道
June 2, 2026
Yahoo! Health: How To Protect Yourself From Ticks This Season, According To Experts
What experts say you should do before — and after — heading outdoors.
View post
Couple sitting on floor behind laid out backpacks and organized camping and hiking gear.
媒体报道
June 2, 2026
The Trek: Going Gaga Over Gear
Your life in a backpack? Yes, it’s possible.
View post
Various insect repellent products on a wooden shelf including sprays, lotion, and citronella candle.
媒体报道
June 2, 2026
REI: How to Choose Insect Repellent
Find the right bug spray for you based on the active ingredient, concentration and application type.
View post
Spray bottle of Ranger Ready insect repellent with 20% Picaridin for long-lasting protection.
媒体报道
June 2, 2026
Fox 2 News: Mosquito Repellents That Actually Work
Summer is almost here and that means mosquitoes.
View post
Muddy ground with animal and tire tracks and a single green leaf near the bottom center.
媒体报道
June 2, 2026
Upland Almanac: Average Joe
That deep desire to get outside after a long, cold winter is what elevates turkey hunting here in the Northeast to a premier pursuit.
View post
A small black sprinkler head in the middle of a green backyard lawn with plants blurred in foreground.
媒体报道
May 29, 2026
AOL: Keeping Summer Pests At Bay: Tips To Protect Your Home
As the summer season returns, uninvited guests make their way into our homes.
View post
Backpacker seated on a log drinking from a water bladder in a grassy field with pine trees behind.
媒体报道
May 28, 2026
Backpacker: RIP To These Bygone Backpacking Trends
Take a hike down memory lane to celebrate the gear and fads that got backpacking to where it is today.
View post