Whether you are enjoying an alfresco dinner abroad, a picnic in a local park or spending an evening under the stars, there is no need to let biting bugs be an uninvited guest this summer.
Boots Pharmacist Angela Chalmers has shared Boots top tips to help keep those pesky mozzies, midges and other insects at bay…

1. Match your insect repellent to your destination

Boots pharmacist Angela Chalmers explains: “Mosquitos can be a bother whether you are at home in the UK, or abroad. The most common time for mosquitos to make an appearance is during the early evening and throughout the night. So whether you are planning a break in the UK this summer or further afield, an insect repellent can help you stay protected.  If you are travelling to a hotter climate, choose a suitable repellent with 20-50% DEET as they are recommended in this environment.”

Why not try Boots Pharmaceuticals Repel Tropical Strength Spray ** (50 ml, £4.25), which contains 50% DEET for effective protection against biting insects. Suitable from 6 months.


2. Avoid smelling too tasty!

Boots pharmacist Angela Chalmers explains: “While your favourite perfume, body butter or deodorant makes you smell great, biting insects may agree!  If you are susceptible to bites you may want to use unfragranced body products so that your insect repellent can be as effective as possible.  If you are worried about fragrance, choose a suitable repellent with a lighter scent.”

Try Boots Pharmaceuticals Repel Light Fragrance Spray (50ml, £4.25)**. This is a non-greasy, quick-drying formula with a light and subtle fragrance, scientifically proven to provide effective protection from mosquitoes, midges and other biting insects. Suitable from 6 months. 


                                                                   
                                                                   3. Don’t dress to impress the mozzies!

Boots pharmacist Angela Chalmers explains: “Wearing less in the summer
means we stay nice and cool however this also means there’s more skin exposed to biting insects. If you’re out in the evening opt for long sleeves/trousers in a light fabric so you can keep skin covered while remaining cool and choose looser styles as some insects can bite through tight clothing. Apply an insect repellent to any exposed areas like ankles and feet.”

If you’re looking for a natural alternative to traditional repellents, you may want to try the Boots Pharmaceuticals Repel Natural Pump Spray (100ml, £7.29) which is made from a natural source and provides protection against biting insects. Suitable for those aged from 6 months.





4. Take particular precautions if you are pregnant!

Boots pharmacist Angela Chalmers explains: “Research shows that pregnant women are more likely to be bitten – this could be for a number of reasons including their naturally slightly higher body temperature.  To help defend against bites, choose a product suitable for use during pregnancy. DEET products can be used during pregnancy, check the wording on the product pack and always speak to your pharmacist for advice and product recommendations.”

For a handy travel friendly repellent option, you may want to try Boots Pharmaceuticals Repel Wipes Tropical Strength 6 month + ** (15 Sachets, £5.79). Containing 50% DEET, these wipes are suitable for use in the last 6 months of pregnancy and for those aged from 6 months.


5. Be prepared for pesky bites

Boots pharmacist Angela Chalmers explains: “Bites and stings can not only be itchy or painful but can look unsightly – right at the time when we want to put more flesh on show!  To help soothe itches there are a variety of treatment options available – from traditional creams to quick-to-use sprays.  Always check the label and speak to your pharmacist before using products on small children and babies – and when using repellents too.”
 
Consider the Boots Pharmaceuticals Bite & Sting Relief Antihistamine Cream (20g, £3.39) to help relieve itching from insect bites and stings, suitable for children from aged two years. Contains Mepyramine Maleate. Always ready the label.  
Or you may want to consider Boots Pharmaceuticals Insect Cooling Spray (50ml, £4.59) to help to soothe affected skin caused by insects and nettles. Suitable for adults and children  from aged 6 years

                                                                                     
6. Help make your work-out mozzie proof

Boots pharmacist Angela Chalmers explains: “As well as increased body temperature, certain substances in the skin have also been shown to attract mosquitos – such as sweat and lactic acid which we can produce when we exercise.  So if you’re a keen exerciser who loves an evening jog you could find yourself a prime target this summer!  A robust repellent will help to ward off any pesky insects so consider one that has staying power. Be careful though, if you do get sweaty you will need to apply your insect repellent more frequently.”

Boots Pharmaceuticals Repel Light Fragrance Lotion ** (100ml, £8.99) gives up to 8 hours protection from one application. Suitable for children from 6 months.*


7. Make sure buzzing doesn’t stop you zzzzzing 

Boots pharmacist Angela Chalmers explains: “We all know how annoying it can be lying in bed and all you can hear is the sound of buzzing – especially when it’s too dark to spot and swat the culprit!  To guard yourself and little ones during the night you may want to choose a plug in device this summer to help everyone get their 40 winks”.

The Boots Pharmaceuticals Repel Mosquito Killer Portable Unit (£5.49). This portable battery operated device provides effective protection from mosquitoes and can be placed anywhere indoors at home or in a caravan or tent when on holiday. Do not allow children to play with the unit. Suitable for children from 6 months.
 
 
 

About Boots UK
Boots UK (boots.com), the UK’s leading pharmacy-led health and beauty retailer, is part of the Retail Pharmacy International Division of Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (Nasdaq: WBA), the first global pharmacy-led, health and wellbeing enterprise.  With 2,511* stores in the UK, Boots UK is committed to providing exceptional customer and patient care, be the first choice for pharmacy and healthcare and offer innovative 'only at Boots' exclusive products such as the UK’s leading skincare brand No7, all delivered with the great value customers love. Created over 165 years ago, the Boots brand is still at the heart of the communities it serves.
*As at 31 May 2015 excluding equity method investments.

Notes to Editors
** Use insect repellents safely. Always read the product information and label before use.