Have you ever doused yourself in perfume on holiday, only to find that bugs just won’t leave you alone? It turns out they might be enjoying your fragrance just as much as you are.
That’s right, certain fragrances can attract insects to you. But which scents are the culprits? And is there any way to stop them from putting a dampener on your fun in the sun? Maria Mukaranda, Beauty Editor at Cosmetify, shares her insights into this all-too-common holiday nuisance, from why it happens to how you can keep the creepy crawlies at bay.
Why do some perfumes attract insects more than others?
“If you’ve ever noticed that some days bugs seem to ignore you, but swarm as soon as you wear a specific perfume, the reason could be in the unique scent profiles for each fragrance. Insects follow natural cues and instincts to find food. When bugs notice a smell that is similar to a nectar source or fruit, such as floral or sweet scents, this signals to them that there is potentially a food source in the vicinity.
“Some specific insects are attracted to different scents, too. Mosquitoes, for instance, are drawn to floral scents because flowers are one of their main sources of food. On the other hand, some scents can actually repel them. Fragrances with heavy lavender or eucalyptus notes contain natural compounds that are unpleasant to insects, making them less likely to come near.”
Which scent families are most appealing to bugs?
“Sugary smells such as caramel, brown sugar, or tonka beans are particularly attractive to the likes of mosquitoes and flies. Floral scents are also a firm favourite among bugs, due to their resemblance to nectar, a primary food source for many insect species. Banana scents are known to attract bees. This is because they typically contain compounds that overlap with bee alarm pheromones, which can trigger their attention.”
Are body sprays or scented lotions just as likely to attract insects as perfumes?
“Yes, any products that are fragranced with the above scents are likely to have the same effect. Lotions, body mists, and even some hair products can all contribute to making you more appealing to insects, especially if they contain gourmand or flowery notes.”
What are your top tips for wearing fragrance on holiday without attracting unwanted attention from bugs?
“If you’re going on holiday this summer, consider swapping out your perfume for one that contains insect-repelling notes like citronella, peppermint, lavender, or eucalyptus. These all offer a fresh, summery fragrance without doubling as an open invitation to bugs.
“Timing can also play a key role. Apply perfume in the morning rather than in the evening, as dusk is when insects like mosquitoes are at their most active.
“Sweet smells can become more intense with body heat, so apply your fragrance strategically. Try spritzing it lightly onto your clothes instead of directly on the skin. Finally, keep your application light and minimal. The heavier the scent, the more irresistible it will be to insects.”
Above, from left to right. Top row: Ted Baker Kasia, £25; Nest New York Tempting Tonka, £200; Jo Malone Beach Blossom Cologne, from £86. Bottom row: Fenty Parfum Hair & Body Mist, £43; Escentric Molecules 01 + Black Tea, £125; The 7 Virtues Coconut Sun, £85
