And I'm not talking about Great White's song from the 80's. Yes it a good song to run down memory lane. But I'm talking about getting bitten up while you're hanging outside by the pool, having a dinner with family and friends, doing yard work, gardening or even on a hike. 

Those nasty bumpy itching or stinging bites. UGH!!! Plus some folks out there have bigger reactions to those bites based on the histamine levels in their bodies. YES, you can have more histamine in your body not related to those dang seasonal allergies. However that is a conversation for another day. Stay tuned for that one. 

There are many options to control those pesky bugs. From having a fan outside with you blowing them away to using bug repellent. Those of a certain age will remember the days trucks would drive around spraying DEET to keep those inconvenient bugs away. Since that time many reports and studies have been done on DEET, because of the concern about its neurotoxicity, ability to melt plastic and its greasiness. Neurological symptoms such as seizures have been reported in infants exposed to DEET. Note that recent studies are saying in low doses it is safe. As for me, I'll stay away from it for now. 

Options: 

• Picaridin is a synthetic chemical made to mimic piperine a compound  found in black pepper. It has been used in Europe and Australia. It has been shown to be as effective as DEET without all the nasty concerns. 
• Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus is a great alternative to repel mosquitoes up to 6 hours
• Natural Alternatives as shown below

If you do get bit try applying tea tree oil on the bite. Tea tree oil is an antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and usually no-irritating.  Also pure lavender oil can be used. My favorite way to take the itch out of a mosquito bite is to put a dap of Beautycounter's Charcoal + Mask, just a tiny bit stops the itching almost immediately. 

This mask was originally released as part of Beautycounter's holiday collection, which usually means it's a speciality product that will only be available during the holidays. The response to this product was overwhelmingly positive, hence why it's has been brought back as a staple product. 
I finally tried it this month and was blown away by the effects of this mask. In a short ten minutes you can have soft smooth skin. Many has said it makes your skin as soft as a                          (insert your own adjective and noun). I tried it by myself and with my teen. We both loved how well our faces felt afterwards. 

In a short 10 minutes this mask will make your dull tired skin feel smooth as baby's skin, full of bounce and be more radiant.
The Reflect AHA Effect mask contains: 

• Glycolic Acid: The smallest AHA molecule, it absorbs easily into skin, effectively removing dead skin, leaving a brighter complexion.
• Phytic Acid: Helps exfoliate buildup on skin to reduce dry, flaky skin leaving a more even complexion.
• Bamboo Particles: A gentle physical exfoliator derived from the stems of bamboo.
• Saccharide Isomerate: An ultra-hydrating sugar-based moisturizer that combats dryness while soothing skin.

Are you ready to try this mask now? Grab one here. On the fence I have a limited supply of samples. Message me here to try a sample. I only ask that you report back to me with your results.