International Header

Backpacker: Is Your Backcountry Skincare Routine Attracting Mosquitos?

Getting bit? It could be your backcountry hygiene—or lack thereof.

Backpacker: Is Your Backcountry Skincare Routine Attracting Mosquitos?

Last updated:
July 25, 2024
|  5 min read

Backpacker: Is Your Backcountry Skincare Routine Attracting Mosquitos?

Backpacker: Is Your Backcountry Skincare Routine Attracting Mosquitos?

YouTube video highlight

Getting bit? It could be your backcountry hygiene—or lack thereof.

Read more about the project

Backpacker: Is Your Backcountry Skincare Routine Attracting Mosquitos?

Thumbnail Slider Image
Pa gen atik yo te jwenn.

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?

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.

Foto thumbnail Blog Otè
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.
Medya Mansyone

Backpacker: Is Your Backcountry Skincare Routine Attracting Mosquitos?

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.

Foto thumbnail Blog Otè
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.
Medya Mansyone
browse all articles
Isit la nan Sawyer
February 3, 2026
6 Min
Treeline Review: PCT Southbound Gear List & Strategy 2026
Read More

Medya Mansyone

43.2% of hikers used the Sawyer Squeeze, the most common hollow membrane squeeze filter (and the most common water treatment overall).

Mac
Kontribye ekriven

Medya Mansyone

Randy Patton’s late father, Biff Patton, launched the water filter program in 2010.

Conner Beene
Ekriven

Medya Mansyone

The most significant being its positive impact on our health after using it, its capacity to reduce our expenses on water treatment and access to safe water, and the time it saves by eliminating the need for boiling or treating water.

Teburenga Geraldine Tabwebweiti
Communications and Engagement
<<  Previous Post
No previous post!
Check out our Directory
Next Post  >>
No next post!
Check out our Directory
Explore All Sawyer has to Offer

Built for the Outdoors

see ALL PRODUCTS