There are thousands of mosquito species, but only about 100 bite people, Riffell says. They choose who to bite “by focusing on the cues that we’re providing,” he explains.
Breath, Body Heat, and Sweat
Even from a distance, mosquitoes can detect how much carbon dioxide we release when we exhale, Riffell says; higher levels attract them.
Once the insects get closer, they gravitate toward people with higher body temperatures. They also love the scent of sweat.
These cues get amplified when you’re more active, Riffell says. As your heart rate increases, you’re exhaling more carbon dioxide, producing more heat, and perspiring more — and you become really attractive to mosquitos.
“Those of us who are ‘super attractors’ have more carboxylic acids in our body odor,” Riffell says. “However, researchers are still trying to identify the specific compounds involved in attraction, and these may differ among individuals.”
Skin Microbiome
Your skin microbiome — which includes bacteria, viruses, fungi, oils, and other substances — can also contribute to a mosquito’s attraction to you, Riffell says.
Alcohol
That afternoon Chardonnay or sunset martini can make you more enticing to mosquitoes. When you drink, your heart rate increases, your blood flow increases, and you might sweat more, all of which can intensify your mosquito magnetism, Riffell says.
