Expert reveals gross reason why mosquitos like some people a lot more than others

No matter where you live in the world, it's likely you've been bitten by a mosquito at some point.

There are thought to be around round 110 trillion mosquitoes in the world, so it's safe to say the insects are pretty much everywhere.

But mosquitos don't just bite you because they want to be annoying, they do it to get a so-called 'blood meal' deriving proteins from our blood to produce their eggs.

While all of us have blood flowing through our veins that will appeal to mozzies, there are additional factors that might make your more delicious to the flying bite machines.

Sweat

Sweat is one thing that can make you look juicier to a nearby mosquito. Female mosquitoes drink mammalian blood, and the best way to locate a mammal? Our sweat, of course.

Dermatologist Lindsey Zubritsky, who goes by @dermguru on TikTok, explained: "There's actually a scientific reason for that mosquitoes are attracted to sweat and people who have a higher temperature particularly attracted to things like ammonia, uric acid, lactic acid, and so people who exercise quite a bit are more likely to get bit by mosquitoes."

Drinking beer

Drinking a nice, cold brewski on a hot day could also draw mosquitos your way.

"Other things that can make you more susceptible to mosquito bites is drinking a beer," said Zubritsky. "A study found that just drinking 112 ounce cans of beer can make you more attractive to mosquitoes."

Bacteria colonies

The types of bacteria on our skin can contribute towards the likelihood of you being bitten as well.

Zubritsky said: "The type and the number of bacteria that live on our skin can make us more or less attractive to mosquitoes also explained why we are more likely to get fit on the ankles because there's more robust bacterial colonies in those areas."

One thing you can do to avoid being bitten is to have very thick body hair. This actually creates a physical barrier and mosquitoes can sometimes struggle to get through.

Or, if you don't fancy looking like Chewbacca on your next holiday, wearing long trousers can also keep you protected from any pesky mozzies.

Insect repellant can help too. Products with DEET in them are typically the best and can give as long as five hours-worth of protection.

Bet you feel itchy now.

Topics: Health, Nature, Animals, TikTok

Niamh Shackleton

Niamh Shackleton is an experienced journalist for UNILAD, specialising in topics including mental health and showbiz, as well as anything Henry Cavill and cat related. She has previously worked for OK! Magazine, Caters and Kennedy.

@niamhshackleton