Oops - my first reaction to the Skin So Soft suggestions was one of disbelief [hangs head in shame], but on further investigation, whilst it wasn't developed as an insect repellent, it was found to have that exact effect whilst also smelling quite decent.
So, up until now I have been using tea tree spray which hasn't worked well this year (for some reason). Mentioned the Avon product to the Mrs and she tells me there's a bottle in the cupboard! Not only that, but a full can of Jungle Formula too! Already been out watering tonight and bitten several times, so I'll have to wait until tomorrow to try the alternatives.
I have been told that vitamin B6 (tablets) will make your blood less attractive to mozzies. OH never gets bitten and I always do. I think you have to take them long term for it to make a difference.
I've heard that having type A blood rather than O means you are less attractive to mozzies, which is true in my family, me and the other 'A's hardly get nibbled while the 'O's are plagued.
This year though I've had a few really nasty bites, big red lumps that are sore for days, can only assume there are more of other biters around than usual.
Another vote for Skin so Soft. I don't know if the story about a Squaddie discovering its benefits is true - but true it certainly is. If you react badly to bites a combination of vitamin B6 tablets and antihistamines does help, although I'm not sure how long it's advisible to take antihistamines for. My wife is a mozzie magnet and that combination reduces both the number of bites and the severity of the reaction.
We both used Skin so Soft in Scotland and it really was incredible to see the clouds of midges part as we walked toward them.
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So, up until now I have been using tea tree spray which hasn't worked well this year (for some reason). Mentioned the Avon product to the Mrs and she tells me there's a bottle in the cupboard! Not only that, but a full can of Jungle Formula too! Already been out watering tonight and bitten several times, so I'll have to wait until tomorrow to try the alternatives.
This year though I've had a few really nasty bites, big red lumps that are sore for days, can only assume there are more of other biters around than usual.