The presence of tiny flying insects swarming around the face, eyes, and mouth is a common outdoor annoyance. These persistent pests are generally referred to as gnats, a term encompassing various small flies, including midges and fungus gnats. Although gnats are usually harmless, their constant buzzing is a major distraction. Understanding why gnats are attracted to the facial area provides the foundation for choosing effective defense strategies.
Why Gnats Target the Face
Gnats are actively seeking specific resources available on the face. The primary attractant is the plume of warm, moist air exhaled during breathing, which is rich in carbon dioxide (\(\text{CO}_2\)). \(\text{CO}_2\) acts as a long-range chemical signal guiding the insects to their host.
The face also provides a reliable source of moisture and salts, necessary for the gnats’ survival. Sweat and tears contain both, creating an irresistible landing zone, especially during warmer weather or physical exertion. Additionally, microbial communities and natural oils on the skin produce odors that attract certain species seeking nutrients or breeding sites. This combination of chemical signals, moisture, and warmth explains their focused and frustrating attention on the head and face.
Chemical and Topical Repellent Methods
The direct application of repellents creates a chemical defense barrier that confuses the gnats’ sensory systems, preventing them from landing. For facial use, the synthetic compound Picaridin is often preferred over DEET. Picaridin, typically used at a 20% concentration, is effective against flies and gnats, offers a non-greasy feel, and is odorless.
While DEET is a highly effective repellent, its strong odor, oily feel, and potential to damage plastics make Picaridin a more comfortable option near the face. The safest application technique is to spray a small amount onto your hands first. Then, gently dab the product onto the forehead, neck, and behind the ears, carefully avoiding the eyes and mouth.
Plant-based alternatives, such as Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE), which contains the active ingredient p-menthane-3,8-diol (PMD), can provide effective protection for several hours. Other essential oils like citronella, lavender, and peppermint are sometimes used. These must be properly diluted with a carrier oil before being applied to the skin, as concentrated essential oils can cause irritation or phototoxicity on sensitive facial skin.
Physical Barriers and Environmental Tactics
Using physical barriers and adjusting behavior offers a reliable defense against facial swarming when topical repellents are insufficient.
Physical Barriers
A simple, effective solution is using a fine-mesh head net or mosquito netting, often worn over a wide-brimmed hat. This completely prevents gnats from reaching the face. A wide-brimmed hat alone can also help, as gnats often gravitate toward the highest point of the body.
Environmental Tactics
Portable fans create a localized wind current that gnats, being weak flyers, cannot easily navigate. Setting a fan near a seating area effectively clears the air within a small radius, creating a gnat-free zone. Clothing choice is another tactic; gnats tend to be less attracted to light-colored clothing, so wearing lighter shades may reduce their interest.
Adjusting personal care products can minimize attraction, as gnats are drawn to sweet, fruity, or floral scents found in shampoos, lotions, and perfumes. Using unscented or mildly scented products before going outdoors removes this attractant. Additionally, avoiding outdoor activity during the gnat’s peak swarming times, typically at dusk and dawn, significantly reduces exposure.