# Beer, Body Scent Make You a Mosquito Magnet. DEET Offers Real Protection.
Mosquitoes don't bite randomly. Certain people attract them far more than others, and science now explains why.
Research shows that mosquitoes home in on specific body chemicals and behaviors. Drinking beer increases mosquito attraction, according to studies presented at entomology conferences. The culprit involves metabolic changes and increased carbon dioxide in breath and sweat. Body odor plays an equally strong role. Mosquitoes detect lactic acid, ammonia, and other compounds in human sweat from considerable distances. Some people naturally produce more of these attractants, making them mosquito magnets regardless of effort.
Genetics influence susceptibility too. Twin studies reveal that about 85 percent of mosquito attraction variation stems from inherited traits. Blood type matters as well. People with Type O blood get bitten more frequently than other blood types, research confirms.
Heat and moisture amplify the problem. Mosquitoes sense body temperature and humidity, so active people and those who sweat easily face higher bite risk.
DEET remains the gold standard for protection. The EPA recognizes DEET concentrations of 20 to 30 percent as effective against most mosquito species. Parents can safely apply DEET to children over 2 months old, following label directions carefully. DEET works by masking human scent and creating a repellent barrier on skin. Studies show it provides reliable protection for 4 to 6 hours per application, depending on concentration.
Picaridin offers another option. This EPA-approved alternative provides similar protection to DEET at 20 percent concentration and feels less greasy on skin.
If you notice your family gets bitten more than friends' families, don't blame neglect. Your genetics and body chemistry