How to Conquer No-See-Ums on Sanibel Island!

Posted on Friday, August 16, 2019

If you have ever spent time in Southwest Florida during the summer months you most likely would be accustomed to Florida’s smallest menace – the no-see-um. Some people are more susceptible to them than others, I myself am included. I have tried a wide variety of bug repellents and after care relief, therefore I consider myself somewhat of an expert on the subject. Without further ado…

Best bug repellents:

• Avon Skin So Soft – a tried and true island favorite. This is the perfect product to create a thick barrier for your skin that the bugs cannot penetrate.
• Exofficio Anti-Insect Clothing – it actually works! Exofficio offers a wide variety of different clothing options (tops, bottoms, buffs) for both men and women that offers their innovative anti-insect technology. The repellent fused into the fabric lasts up to 70 washes. Stop by Adventures in Paradise Outfitters in the Tahitian Gardens plaza for all of your Exofficio Anti-Insect needs.
• Off! Deep Woods spray – always handy to have a bottle on deck. This is your classic bug spray with a higher concentration of DEET, known to be an effective bug repellent.

Most effective after-care products:

• Witch Hazel – perfect for soothing and calming down the skin after a bite.
• Benadryl Extra Strength Itch Relief Stick – can be applied directly onto bites for relief. Conveniently sized to be kept in your beach bag, backpack, etc.
• Self-control – don’t itch that bite! I struggle with concept all of the time, but the best thing that you can do for a bug bite is to leave it alone.

I think we all need to thank the Lee County Mosquito Control for helping keep not only mosquitos, but no-see-ums at a manageable level – they are the real MVPS. I hope that my recommendations helped, and will see you all next week.

Warm regards from paradise,
Caitlyn