The term “gnats” refers to a diverse group of small, flying insects, including biting midges, black flies, and fungus gnats. These pests are drawn to humans for various reasons, making personal protection necessary outdoors. A defense strategy requires a multi-layered approach combining chemical repellents, physical barriers, and minimizing personal attractants. The following methods offer actionable steps to keep these persistent insects from swarming or biting.
Utilizing Proven Synthetic Repellents
The most dependable defense against gnats involves applying synthetic repellents that have been rigorously tested and registered for efficacy. Products containing DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide) are considered the standard, masking the human odors insects use to locate a host. Concentrations between 7% and 30% are recommended for reliable protection over several hours. Higher concentrations, such as 50%, primarily extend the duration of protection rather than increasing the level of effectiveness.
Picaridin, or Icaridin, is another highly effective active ingredient that is odorless and non-greasy, providing similar performance to DEET. Formulations with a 20% concentration offer maximum protection and are effective against biting flies, including many species commonly called gnats. Unlike DEET, Picaridin does not damage synthetic materials, making it a safer choice for application near clothing and gear.
Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE), which contains p-Menthane-3,8-diol (PMD), is an EPA-registered repellent derived from a plant source. It is categorized alongside synthetics due to its regulated efficacy. Repellents containing OLE at a 30% to 40% concentration offer comparable protection to lower concentrations of DEET and Picaridin. Apply any repellent only to exposed skin, covering all areas evenly, and follow label instructions for reapplication.
Employing Botanical and Natural Deterrents
For those seeking non-synthetic options, several plant-based extracts and household ingredients are used as personal gnat deterrents. Essential oils such as citronella, peppermint, lavender, and eucalyptus contain volatile compounds that small flying insects find unpleasant. These oils must be diluted with a carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba oil, before being applied to the skin to prevent irritation.
Folk remedies involve applying common household products directly to the skin for temporary relief. A solution of pure vanilla extract mixed with water (often one-to-one) is popular, as the strong vanilla scent reportedly repels gnats. While these natural methods offer short-term protection, their effectiveness is less reliable and shorter-lived compared to regulated synthetic options. Botanical deterrents must be reapplied more frequently, and users should test a small patch of skin first for allergic reactions.
Physical Protection Strategies
Creating a physical barrier between the insect and the skin is an effective, non-chemical method of gnat control. Wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and a hat reduces the amount of exposed skin available for gnats to target. Select clothing made from tightly woven fabrics, such as poplin or twill, as the dense weave makes it difficult for biting insects to penetrate the material.
A specialized physical defense is the use of permethrin, an insecticide applied only to clothing and gear, never directly to the skin. Permethrin-treated clothing acts as an insecticidal barrier that repels or incapacitates gnats and other insects that land on the fabric. Treating clothing with permethrin is a complementary strategy that should be paired with a skin-applied repellent for complete protection.
Where gnats swarm around the face, a fine-mesh head net worn over a hat provides a complete barrier. This net prevents gnats from reaching the eyes, ears, and mouth, which they target for moisture and salt. Combining protective clothing, permethrin treatment, and a head net offers a robust defense that maximizes comfort in highly infested areas.
Minimizing Personal Attractants
A proactive strategy involves reducing the factors that attract gnats, minimizing the need for heavy reliance on repellents. Gnats are drawn to moisture, salt, and carbon dioxide; sweat and exhaled breath are significant attractants. Wiping down exposed skin frequently to remove perspiration and salt deposits reduces your appeal to these insects.
Strong, sweet, or fruity fragrances in personal care products act as powerful attractants for gnats. Perfumes, scented lotions, hairsprays, and certain soaps can mimic the smells of fermenting fruit or flowers, drawing pests directly. Switching to unscented or mildly scented products for outdoor activities decreases the number of gnats circling you.
Avoiding sugary drinks or fruit outdoors also helps, as spilled sweetness can attract certain species of gnats. By managing personal hygiene and product choices, you disrupt the insects’ ability to locate you using their sense of smell. This preventative approach works with repellents and barriers to keep your space clear.