Gnats are small, flying insects that often appear to follow people. Their persistent presence is driven by specific biological attractions. Understanding what draws these insects to humans is the first step in addressing this behavior, helping clarify why gnats seem to target us and how to encourage them to keep their distance.
What Attracts Gnats to People
Gnats are drawn to humans for several reasons, primarily seeking moisture, warmth, and certain chemical compounds. A significant attractant is the carbon dioxide (CO2) exhaled with each breath, which gnats can detect. This explains why they frequently hover around a person’s face.
Body moisture and sweat also act as strong lures, especially in warmer conditions, as gnats seek salt and hydration. Human body odor, from skin microbes and their byproducts, can further attract them. Additionally, certain fragrances in personal care products like shampoos, lotions, perfumes, and colognes, particularly those with sweet or fruity notes, can draw gnats closer.
Identifying the Gnats
The term “gnat” is a general descriptor for several types of small, flying insects. Fungus gnats, for instance, are commonly found near houseplants and other damp environments. These gnats are slender, dark, with long legs and antennae, resembling small mosquitoes, though they do not bite humans. Their larvae feed on fungi and decaying organic matter in moist soil.
Fruit flies are another common culprit often mistaken for gnats, identified by their tan to brownish bodies, translucent wings, and often bright red eyes. They are strongly attracted to fermenting fruits, vegetables, and sugary residues. Drain flies, also known as moth flies, are small, fuzzy, moth-like insects with hairy wings, found in drains and other areas with wet organic matter buildup.
Strategies to Keep Gnats Away
To deter gnats from following you, maintain good personal hygiene. Regular showering and keeping skin clean minimizes sweat and body odor. Opting for unscented or mildly scented personal care products, such as shampoos, lotions, and deodorants, makes you less appealing to gnats.
Clothing choices can also play a role; lighter colors may be less attractive to certain insects than darker hues. Manage potential breeding grounds by allowing houseplant soil to dry between waterings to discourage fungus gnats. Promptly clean up ripe or decaying fruit to prevent fruit fly infestations. For outdoor activities, insect repellents containing active ingredients provide a barrier against gnats.