Okay, let's talk bugs. You're probably here because you heard that Avon's Skin So Soft can keep mosquitoes away. Maybe your neighbor swears by it, or you saw it mentioned online. But does this lotion-turned-bug-spray actually work? I've tested this stuff in my own backyard during peak mosquito season, and let me tell you - it's complicated.
What Exactly is Skin So Soft?
First things first: Skin So Soft is NOT officially bug repellent. Avon sells it as bath oil and moisturizer. It smells like citronella mixed with baby powder (not my favorite scent, honestly). People started using it as mosquito repellent decades ago because they noticed bugs avoided it. Funny how these things happen, right?
The Science Behind the Buzz
Researchers got curious and tested it. Turns out, cedarwood oil in the formula does repel some pests. Studies show it works okay against mosquitoes for about 20-40 minutes, but DEET lasts 5-8 hours. Not exactly comparable.
Remember that camping trip I took last summer? I tried Skin So Soft as my only bug spray. Big mistake. Came back with seven bites. My friend using DEET? Zero. Lesson learned.
| Repellent Type | Effectiveness Duration | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin So Soft Original | 20-40 minutes | Short outdoor activities | $5-$8 per bottle |
| DEET-based sprays | 4-8 hours | Hiking, camping | $4-$15 |
| Picaridin sprays | 5-8 hours | Family use, sensitive skin | $7-$18 |
| Avon's Bug Guard (SSS version) | 1-2 hours | Light protection | $10-$14 |
Getting the Most Out of Skin So Soft as Bug Spray
If you're determined to try it, here's how to maximize effectiveness:
- Apply generously - We're talking full coverage, not just quick spritz
- Reapply hourly - Seriously, set phone reminders
- Focus on ankles/wrists - Bugs love these pulse points
- Combine strategies - Wear light colors, avoid dusk hours
Pro tip: Keep it in your fridge during summer. The cool formula feels amazing when reapplying on hot days. Found this trick after suffering through sticky reapplications at a barbecue.
What Bugs It Actually Repels
Surprise - it works better on some pests than others:
| Pest Type | Effectiveness Rating | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mosquitoes | ★★☆☆☆ (Weak) | Only short-term prevention |
| Black flies | ★★★☆☆ (Moderate) | Works better than for mosquitoes |
| Sand flies | ★★★★☆ (Good) | Most effective against this pest |
| Ticks | ★☆☆☆☆ (Poor) | Not recommended for tick areas |
Safety Considerations You Should Know
Since this isn't formulated as insect repellent, there are things to consider:
Don't use Skin So Soft as bug spray on kids under 2 months. The essential oils can be too harsh for sensitive newborn skin. Saw a mom at the park learn this the hard way - poor kiddo got a rash.
Pet owners listen up: Cedarwood oil can be toxic to cats. If you've applied Skin So Soft as bug repellent, wash hands before petting kitties. My cousin's cat got sick this way - scary stuff.
Avon's Official Bug Guard Products
Avon actually makes proper insect repellents now. Here's how they compare to the original:
- Bug Guard Plus - Contains Picaridin (lasts 2-3 hours)
- Bug Guard Plus IR3535 - Gentle formula (good for kids)
- Bug Guard Sunscreen Combo - SPF30 + repellent
Honestly? These work way better than using original Skin So Soft as bug spray. The Picaridin version kept me bite-free during a weekend fishing trip.
Real User Experiences with Skin So Soft
I asked around in my community about their experiences:
"It smells nice but I still get eaten alive" - Mark, Florida
"Works great for my garden chores!" - Sarah, Ohio
"Made my skin super greasy" - Alex, Texas
"Better than nothing when I ran out of DEET" - Jamal, Michigan
When Skin So Soft Makes Sense
After all my testing, here's where I'll still use it:
- Taking out trash (quick exposure)
- Gardening for <20 minutes
- As base layer under stronger repellent
- When I want light fragrance with some protection
Common Questions About Skin So Soft as Bug Spray
Can Skin So Soft replace DEET?
No way. If you're in bug-heavy areas or concerned about diseases, use proper repellents. Skin So Soft as bug spray is more of a light-duty option.
Does the scent attract any bugs?
Interestingly, some users report it attracts bees. I noticed this too during flower season. Maybe skip it if you're allergic.
Which Skin So Soft version works best?
The original bath oil gives the most consistent results. The newer sprays seem watered down to me.
Can I mix it with other repellents?
Not recommended. Mixing products can decrease effectiveness or cause reactions. Found this out when I tried combining with DEET - sticky mess!
Alternative Natural Options
If you like the natural approach, consider these alternatives:
| Product | Active Ingredients | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Repel Lemon Eucalyptus | Oil of lemon eucalyptus | 6 hours | $5-$8 |
| Sawyer Picaridin | Picaridin 20% | 8-12 hours | $8-$12 |
| OFF! Botanicals | Essential oils blend | 2 hours | $5-$7 |
My Personal Recommendation
After years of trial and error (and many itchy nights), here's my advice:
For serious protection: Use EPA-approved repellents with DEET, Picaridin or IR3535. Save Skin So Soft as bug spray for quick trips to the mailbox or light gardening. It's not a magic solution, despite what some enthusiasts claim.
The bottom line? Skin So Soft as bug repellent works better than nothing but worse than proper insect sprays. Know its limits and you won't be disappointed.
Where to Buy and What to Look For
You can find Skin So Soft:
- Direct from Avon representatives
- Amazon (careful for counterfeits)
- Some drugstores (Walgreens, CVS)
- eBay (check expiration dates)
Real talk: Prices vary wildly. I've seen $5 bottles and $20 bottles for identical products. Shop around.
Check manufacturing dates too. That bottle in grandma's cabinet from 2010? Probably lost whatever effectiveness it had. Fresh batches work better.
Final Thoughts on Skin So Soft as Bug Spray
Look, I get the appeal. It's natural-ish, smells okay, and feels better on skin than chemical sprays. But let's be real - calling Skin So Soft bug spray is like calling a bicycle a race car. Both get you places, but with very different results.
If you're in a low-risk area with minimal bugs, give it a shot. But if you're dealing with disease-carrying mosquitoes or thick swarms? Get proper protection. Your ankles will thank you.
At the end of the day, whether you choose to use Skin So Soft as bug spray comes down to your specific needs and tolerance for risk. Just please don't rely on it for serious protection. Trust me on that.
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