Mosquito Patches Offer Benefits To Many Consumers

By Elena McDowell


Mosquito patches are stick-on bandages that are treated with some type of mosquito repellent. They are designed to keep these irksome insects away from one's skin, and may also repel other biting pests, such as fleas and gnats. The patch typically has a backing that peels off to reveal a surface that is coated with adhesive. It can then be applied directly to an individual's skin for up to thirty-six hour of protection against the aforementioned bugs.

This kind of insect repellent is generally sold in boxes of five. However, trial sizes are also available. The patches are individually sealed in most cases, as this is convenient for the user. One patch per adult is usually all that is necessary, and some individuals even cut the patches in half so that they can place one on each arm.

Using such products according to the manufacturer's instructions essential. This is due to the fact that each formula is a bit different from the others, and for this reason the directions will vary from one brand to the next. Patches of this type do not usually contain substances that are hazardous to people. Instead, they are made from the same products one would find in aerosol mosquito sprays.

Aloe, vitamin B1, garlic and citronella are a few of the ingredients commonly found in such products. This is because these are thought to be a safe base in which to place other repellent substances. Garlic and citronella are particularly offensive to mosquitoes, as these substances burn the delicate wings.

Such products are safe to place on the back, chest, or arms, and they are not associated with hazardous side effects. They are most commonly placed on the arms, chest and back, and most patches of this kind are waterproof. However, it is good idea to refer to the label if one wishes to be certain about this feature.

As previously mentioned, a typical mosquito patch works for approximately 36 hours. However, toward the last few hours its scent may weaken. When in doubt, one should apply a fresh patch. In most cases, the product should be placed on one's skin about 2 hours before he or she will be exposed to mosquitoes, but as this may vary from one brand to the next, one should refer again to the label.

It is not necessary to combine this type of the patch with other mosquito repellent. This is because it is quite strong on its own. Therefore, additional formulas are usually not needed unless one is dealing with an infestation.

It is important to realize that allergic reactions can occur with essentially any type of insect repellent. Although such a reaction is rare, if it takes place, dangerous side effects can occur. One should remove the patch at once if he or she experiences shortness of breath, swelling of the feet, throat, or hands, or excessive itchiness.

It is best to apply the product only to clean, dry skin. This will ensure that the adhesive stays strong enough to keep the patch in place for the full thirty-six hours. Investing in mosquito patches is a wise course of action for anyone who must deal with these irksome pests.




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