You may be sweeter than other people, but that’s definitely not why.

We all have that friend that claims to be a “mosquito magnet.” While a group of people can be standing in the same spot, there’s always that one person who is literally itching to go inside, while the rest of the group is mosquito free. If you’ve ever wondered why that is, we’ve broken down different ways you can make yourself the apple of a mosquito’s eye – without even realizing it.

1. Carbon Dioxide

According to an instructor at the Harvard School of Public Health, mosquitos seek out carbon dioxide. So, for example, if you’re hiking or exercising, you would be producing more carbon dioxide and making it much easier for mosquitos to locate their next living, breathing target. Unfortunately, the only way to completely cut down your carbon dioxide is by holding your breath, which we do not recommend you do. Limit outdoor activities to the times when mosquitos are less likely to be out and protect yourself with loose, long-sleeved shirts and pants.

2. Heat

While carbon dioxide is how mosquitos determine if you have blood, heat is how they figure out where to bite. Before mosquitos take a bite, they have to locate an area of the body where the blood is close to the surface, such as the forehead, wrists, elbows, and neck. When people are overheated and sweating, blood moves closer to the surface of the skin throughout the body. In this case, mosquitos can attack from all different angles.

3. Beer Drinkers

According to a study in 2002, researchers found that just one bottle of beer can increase your likelihood of getting bit. Researchers believe this is due to the fact that drinking increases the amount of ethanol excreted in sweat and increases your body temperature. So no, mosquitos aren’t drunkards, but you may want to keep this in mind at the next family BBQ.

4. Your Outfit

You now have another reason to stick to summer colors! Studies show that wearing dark clothing can cause you to stand out against your environment, putting a spotlight on you from a mosquito’s point of view.

5. Movement

Just like carbon dioxide exposes you as a living thing, so does a movement. You might think the more you move the harder it will be for a mosquito to land on you. However, moving quickly and often will make you easier to identify.

6. Pregnant Women

A pregnant woman is told to stay away from coffee, alcohol, sushi and now, the outdoors. Research shows that pregnant women are a degree warmer and exhale up to 20% more carbon dioxide than the average person, putting them at a higher risk of getting a mosquito bite.

Now that you’re aware of how you attract mosquitos, you can begin to make a conscious effort to mitigate your risk of being a mosquito magnet. Platinum Mosquito Protection wants you to spend your summer outdoors, carefree. Call us today to learn how we can help you reclaim your backyard® and live life without mosquitos®