Why Do Some People Get Bitten More Than Others?

Ever wondered why mosquitoes seem to target you more than others? You’re not alone. Up to 20% of people are especially attractive to mosquitoes, according to research published in the Journal of Medical Entomology. While it might feel personal, science shows there are several biological reasons why some people get bitten more than others – and it’s not just bad luck.

1. Your Body Chemistry

Mosquitoes are highly sensitive to chemicals released from our skin. Research shows that lactic acid, ammonia, and other compounds produced in sweat can act like a dinner bell. People who naturally produce more of these substances – particularly after exercise – may become prime targets.

2. Carbon Dioxide Output

Mosquitoes use carbon dioxide (CO₂) to locate hosts from a distance. Adults exhale CO₂ with every breath and certain people emit more. For example, a study in The Lancet revealed that pregnant women attract twice as many mosquitoes, due to increased body temperature and CO₂ output.

3. Blood Type Matters

Believe it or not, your blood type may influence how often you’re bitten. A widely cited study from Japan found that mosquitoes landed on people with Type O blood nearly twice as often as those with Type A. Type B fell somewhere in between.

4. Your Skin Microbiome

The bacteria on your skin can also play a role. Some microbial combinations produce scents that are more appealing to mosquitoes. People with less diverse skin bacteria are often more attractive to them, possibly because certain bacteria produce stronger odours. This is where incognito’s body care range comes into play. Use our loofah soap to exfoliate your skin and reduce any unwanted build up.

5. What You Wear

Mosquitoes rely on visual cues too. Dark colours like black and navy absorb heat and stand out against the horizon, making wearers more visible. So yes – that black outfit on a summer evening might be a bite magnet.

6. Alcohol Consumption

Drinking alcohol, particularly beer, has been shown to increase mosquito attraction. A study published in PLOS ONE found that people had significantly more mosquito landings after drinking just one beer – possibly due to a change in body temperature or breath composition.

How to Stay Bite-Free

Whether you’re naturally prone to bites or not, protection is key – especially when travelling or spending time outdoors in warmer months. incognito's award-winning range of natural insect repellents offers scientifically backed protection without harmful chemicals. Our DEET-free formulas are proven to protect against mosquitoes, midges, and other biting insects, while being kind to your skin and the environment.

Check out our page about the C.L.O.A.K. method which further enhances your ability to stay protected.

So, if you’re one of the unlucky few who always gets bitten – now you know why. And more importantly, now you know how to avoid it.