Holiday, self tan and mosquitoes...

[Justkoko]

I don't tan, and prefer shade anyway so when I go on holiday I will want to take a self tanning product and use it daily/as needed. My usual choice is Bondi Sands gradual/foam but the gradual lotion is quite strong smelling imo. 1. Is there a less scented tanner I can use as I don't feel great with the smell of it on me every evening and 2. Will it attract mozzies? Maybe the foam just once every couple of days would be better than daily gradual, though I'd be nervous of it being very dark on me, I just want a light colour that takes out the blue!

I get eaten alive and end up with huge welts that can take months to disappear. I really need to find a good repellant but hopefully one which doesn't interfere with the tanner. I've had the deet sprays before but wow, the chemicals smell brutal. Would a lotion work? Are any of the gadgets/bracelets actually any use against mosquitoes?

Am I destined to spend my few days of relaxation as a chemical hazard or is there a solution?

You need to be uninteresting to the mozzies. Grey rock them if you like. Which means it’s best not to wear anything with a strong smell.

It sounds like you are already away, but I would usually suggest building up your tan colour gradually with something like garnier or dove before you travel, and then not using it whilst abroad.

My other tips would be to wear long clothing at dusk and in the evenings with repellent containing 50% deet on any exposed skin. The Avon stuff is popular and some people swear by it on clothing, but as HCPs we are not allowed to recommend it.

Other handy tips are to use mosquito nets where they are available (or take your own) and using ceiling fans or AC in the evenings if it’s available, as mozzies don’t like cold or moving air.