I just can't with the mosquitoes anymore

I could spend all day lamenting about the downsides of living in Florida, but I have to say the robust insect population is at the top of the “hate” list. No matter how hard I try to keep my backyard clear of any standing water, the mosquitoes persist, and inevitably find their way into the house where they track me down and eat me alive.

This is truly one of the banes of my existence which is why I now have a ZAP IT! sitting next to my desk. Basically a high-voltage fly swatter (that’s apparently safe enough to keep lying around—at least until my husband or son interrupt me AGAIN), I’m showing those mosquitoes that dare to cross my threshold who’s boss. (The only downside it that I can’t take it with me when I walk the dog because she’s petrified of it.) 

The skeeters have also gotten in the way of my socially-distanced backyard happy hours. Maybe it’s just me, but it’s not worth sitting outside, sweating, swatting myself incessantly and having to shower when I get home before I get into bed. The shower is of utmost importance when I use insect repellent (even though I use a natural one) because it makes me smell like a citronella candle. But with that said, it’s almost time to get a new bottle and I have two options I’m considering. 

First is Jao’s Patio Oil, which makes fending off bug bites sound like an indulgent self-care experience. Billed as a highly-fragranced body oil with a plant-based “Bug Shy Blend,” it’s packed with lemon eucalyptus essential oil, jojoba, hemp oil, chamomile, calendula and more. My only reservation is whether I’ll feel like I’m suffocating when slathered in oil in 95% humidity. Perhaps the Patio Oil Moisturizing Mist may be a better choice. 

Also in the running is OH.SO’s Buzz Kill (clever, right?). Available in Lemongrass and Rosemary Mint, these clean insect repellents harness the power of essential oils and colloidal silver to keep those bugs at bay. (If you hop over to the site to check these out, take a peek at the About Face Facial Mists, too. Formulated with antimicrobial colloidal silver as well, a light spritz before and after wearing a mask just might help keep maskne to a minimum.)