Do Mosquito Repellent Soap Bars Really Work?

Mosquito Repellent Soap Bars - Do They Really Work?

Mosquito bites can be itchy, annoying, and sometimes even dangerous. Diseases like malaria, Zika, dengue fever, and West Nile virus can all be transmitted by infected mosquitoes. Understandably, preventing mosquito bites is a top priority for many people. While DEET bug sprays are often effective, some people prefer more natural repellent options. Recently, mosquito repellent soap bars containing ingredients like citronella, lemongrass, peppermint, and coconut oil have become popular. But do these soaps really help deter mosquitoes?

How Mosquito Repellent Soaps Are Believed to Work

Mosquito repellent soaps are formulated with botanical oils that are known to have insect-repelling properties. These include:

• Citronella oil - Derived from lemongrass, it has a mild lemon-lime scent.
• Lemongrass oil - Provides a fresh, grassy aroma.
• Peppermint oil - Has a strong menthol odor that bugs dislike.
• Eucalyptus oil - Repels insects with its woodsy, medicinal fragrance.
• Coconut oil - Recently found to provide moderate mosquito protection.
• Geranium oil - Floral scent drives away various biting insects.

When applied to the skin, these essential oils create a vapor barrier that helps mask human scent and repel mosquitoes. Some soaps also contain trace amounts of EPA-registered repellents like IR3535 for added protection.

Examining the Research on Natural Repellents

Many plant-derived oils have been used as insect repellents for centuries. But what does modern research have to say about their effectiveness? Several controlled studies have found promise in some natural compounds:

• A 2002 study found that coconut oil provided over 90 minutes of protection against Aedes mosquitoes, better than many botanical repellents.
• In a 2011 study, hairless mice treated with 5% peppermint oil were able to repel mosquitoes for 150 minutes.
• Lemongrass oil provided 2 hours of repellency against mosquitoes according to a 2011 study.
• A 2015 study found that citronella candles reduced mosquito bites by 42% outdoors over a 2 hour period.

While these preliminary findings are encouraging, most experts agree that natural repellents typically don't last as long or work as well as DEET or picaridin products. But they can still be useful, especially if you're looking to avoid chemicals.

Tips for Using Natural Mosquito Soaps

Here are some tips to get the most out of mosquito repellent soaps:

• Look for soaps containing oils like citronella, peppermint, lemongrass, eucalyptus, and coconut for natural repellency.
• Apply soap thoroughly over all exposed skin, paying special attention to ankles, wrists, and neck.
• Reapply soap every 2-4 hours for ongoing protection.
• Combine with an oil diffuser, candles, or incense containing repellent essential oils for extra mosquito protection.
• Store soap in a sealed container between uses to help retain the essential oil scents.
• Avoid getting repellent soap directly in your eyes or mouth.

Top 5 Mosquito Repellent Soap Bars

If you're looking for an effective mosquito repellent soap, these popular products are worth trying:

1. Murphy's Naturals Mosquito Repellent Soap

This top-rated soap contains citronella, lemongrass, peppermint, and geranium oils for serious mosquito protection. It provides 4-6 hours of defense against mosquitoes and other biting insects like ticks or chiggers. The invigorating natural scents leave you feeling refreshed.

2. Herbal Armor All-Natural Insect Repellent Soap

With a refreshing blend of citronella, peppermint, and eucalyptus oils, this soap helps create a protective bug barrier. It's handmade in the USA using premium natural ingredients. The lingering scents drive away mosquitoes for hours after bathing.

3. California Baby Natural Bug Blend Mosquito Repellent Soap

Free of DEET, synthetic fragrances, and common allergens, this gentle soap is great for kids and sensitive skin. It relies on a certified organic blend of citronella, lemongrass, and essential oils to ward off mosquitoes for up to 4 hours.

4. Bee Naturals Mosquito & Bug Repellent Soap

Containing a potent mix of citronella, peppermint, and geranium, this soap provides triple action against mosquitoes. It's made with nourishing shea butter to leave your skin feeling soft and hydrated while deterring insects.

5. Mrs. Meyer's Clean Day Bug Repellent Soap

Mrs. Meyer's popular plant-based soaps now come in a special bug repellent formula. It uses essential oils of citronella, lemongrass, and geranium to ward off mosquitoes for up to 3 hours per use. The uplifting scents will make you smell great too.

Other Tips for Avoiding Mosquitoes

Using a natural mosquito soap can provide a useful layer of defense against pesky mosquitoes. But for the best protection, it's wise to take additional precautions as well:

• Wear EPA registered insect repellent like DEET or picaridin when outdoors.
• Apply repellent soaps/sprays to clothing for extra coverage.
• Wear long sleeves and pants when outside during peak mosquito times.
• Stay indoors during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
• Make sure window screens are in good condition.
• Use oscillating fans which make it harder for mosquitoes to land.
• Try mosquito traps or CO2 attractants to lure them away from you.
• Eliminate any standing water sources around your home.

Consult a Doctor for Travel Protection

If you're traveling somewhere with high risk of mosquito-borne illnesses like malaria or Zika, be sure to consult with your doctor beforehand about preventative medication and other protective measures.

While not perfect, quality mosquito repellent soaps can provide a useful extra layer of protection from mosquito bites. Look for soaps containing proven natural repellents like citronella, lemongrass, peppermint, eucalyptus, and coconut oil for the best defense. With other smart precautions, you can enjoy the outdoors mosquito-free.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.