Why do mosquitoes bite some people more than others?

You’re outside with friends, enjoying a warm summer evening. Everyone’s relaxed—except you, furiously scratching fresh mosquito bites. Meanwhile, your neighbor hasn’t been touched. Why does it always happen to you? Is it your blood, your smell, or just bad luck? Not exactly. Mosquitoes follow a clear logic when choosing their targets. The good news? Once you understand their preferences, you can outsmart them.

What Attracts Mosquitoes to You

1. Blood Type Preferences

Not all blood types are equally attractive. Research shows mosquitoes prefer blood type O, followed by type AB. If you’re among the 80% of people who secrete blood type markers through your skin, you’re even more likely to be targeted.

2. Carbon Dioxide (Your Breath)

Mosquitoes can detect carbon dioxide from as far as 50 meters away. The taller you are—or the more active and out of breath—you get, the more CO₂ you release. For them, it’s like seeing a giant neon sign that says “buffet open.”

3. Body Heat

Warm skin is another invitation. That’s why mosquitoes often bite around your legs, ankles, or head. Physical activity or simply being outdoors on a hot day makes you far more attractive to them.

4. Sweat Chemistry

Sweat contains lactic acid, ammonia, and other compounds that mosquitoes find irresistible. You don’t even have to be exercising—just a warm day can be enough to put you on their radar.

How to Keep Mosquitoes Away

Eliminate Standing Water

Mosquitoes don’t breed in bushes—they breed in water. Flowerpot saucers, clogged gutters, old tires, and rain-filled containers are perfect breeding grounds. Empty or replace the water in these spots at least once a week.

Grow Natural Repellents

Certain plants naturally repel mosquitoes with their scent: lemongrass, lavender, peppermint, basil, and marigolds. Plant them on your balcony or in your garden for a fragrant, bee-friendly, but mosquito-free environment.

Use Effective Repellents

Chemical options: Products with DEET (up to 15%) or icaridin (20–25%) are proven effective. Apply only to exposed skin, never under clothing, and don’t exceed three applications a day.
Natural options: Lemon eucalyptus oil is the most effective plant-based repellent. Others, like rose geranium, thyme, clove, or peppermint oils, can help but usually don’t last as long.