Bug Bands as an alternative to insect repellent - will they work?

[erinmarie424]

Has anyone ever used these and would they be effective enough to use in Belize on a boat excursion at the end of April?

 

Description

• Natural & Effective - DEET Free
  
• 4 Band Family Pack - Save 25%
  
• Safe For the Entire Family
  
• Repels Mosquitoes, Flies gnats, No-See-Ums, & Fleas
  
• Wear on Wrists, Ankles, Belt Loops, or Backpacks.
  
• Reusable Up to 120 Hours
  

Insect Repellent That is Safe for the Entire Family

This but repelling band can be affixed to wrists, ankles, backpacks, tents, belt loops, strollers, purses, suitcases, or any other place you can attach it.

 

This family pack provides up to 480 hours of protection against insects. Repels mosquitoes, gnats, fleas, and no-see-ums.

• Geraniol tested to be more effective than Citronella.
  
• Each band effective for up to 120 hours when kept in resealable container.
  
• Breakaway feature for added safety.
  
• For all outdoor activities including swimming. Waterproof.
  

 

 

Ingredients: Active Ingredients: Geraniol 20%

Inert Ingredients: Polyethylene pellets 80%

[TigerStar]

Never heard of these, but I will check them out.

 

Would love to hear some first hand accounts of their use.

[erinmarie424]

I found them on www.vitacost.com - there are user reviews there, but none of the reviewers had used them in any "exotic" locale.... maybe DBF and I will be the CC guinea pigs for these!

[crewsweeper]

Bug Band spray and wipes have been used somewhat effectively for various times on differnet people. But these contact the skin directly like DEET products. And these natural products have a tendency to wear off faster and not be as effective against all types of mosquitos, the the aedes mosquitoes typically found in tropical climates.

 

It's possible these wrist bands put out an odor that repells mosquitoes similar to citronella candles, but I'd doubt they have a very effective range. Probably only good for exposed forearms.

 

If you can't wear DEET or don't like the smell, you may want to try the Bug Band wipes. You can take with you and reapply if necessary.

[lizzytobias]

Bug Band spray and wipes have been used somewhat effectively for various times on differnet people. But these contact the skin directly like DEET products. And these natural products have a tendency to wear off faster and not be as effective against all types of mosquitos, the the aedes mosquitoes typically found in tropical climates.

 

It's possible these wrist bands put out an odor that repells mosquitoes similar to citronella candles, but I'd doubt they have a very effective range. Probably only good for exposed forearms.

 

If you can't wear DEET or don't like the smell, you may want to try the Bug Band wipes. You can take with you and reapply if necessary.

How about Avon Skin So Soft?

[crewsweeper]

How about Avon Skin So Soft?

That contains picaridin, which has been proven t be effective for shorter periods of time. Not sure what the level of strength is in the Avon product. But here too, take some with you and apply frequently.